Have you ever wondered why people worry so much about water conservation here in Flagstaff, AZ?  We live in an incredibly dry climate.  In 2004 we experienced our ninth consecutive year of drought (The Arizona Republic, Tuesday, December 7, 2004 Front Page).  And with the exception of 2005 our drought continues.  All homeowners here in Flagstaff should know on which day of the week they’re supposed to water (and if you don’t, take a look at Watering Rules at the City of Flagstaff website).  Thanks to funding from Coconino County, we at The Arboretum at Flagstaff hope that this website will help you understand not only why water conservation is important here in the Northland, but also what you can do to help.   

Flagstaff Facts

Did you know that Flagstaff only gets an average of 22.8 inches of rain per year?  Here in Flagstaff, there are also 162 clear days on average every year.  Basically, the sun shines for most of the year and we don’t receive very much rain.  This makes it difficult to grow traditional lawns without extensive extra watering throughout the summer.  The humidity in Flagstaff in the afternoons is usually only 39%!  

Low-Water Homescaping

Low-water homescaping is the environmental design of land using various methods for minimizing the need for water use.  For more information, refer to the Flagstaff Fabulous Plants Brochure, created by the Flag Xeriscape Council.  There are several different ways to reduce water usage through low-water homescaping:

1. Using native plants 
2. Terracing to retain storm water runoff
3. Zone planting (see image)
4. Harvesting rainwater (City of Flagstaff Rain Barrel Program)
5. Soil amendment using mulch or compost

  Goals of water conservation:

The Arboretum at Flagstaff

The Arboretum at Flagstaff is committed to water conservation efforts in all of its gardens.  The Arboretum is also dedicated to community education about the importance of water conservation in Flagstaff.

Arboretum Events          Arboretum Gardens           Community Education

*Throughout this web site you will find links to other web pages, which may also contain helpful links, but keep in mind that Flagstaff has special growing needs and our web page provides information and plant lists specific to this growing area.