Community Water Wise Awards

Saving water isn't just good for the environment - it makes good "cents"! Homeowners and businesses across the Tampa Bay area are discovering that a few simple changes can help significantly lower water bills, and improve the health and beauty of their landscapes while helping to preserve Florida's natural environment. The Community Water Wise Awards were created to recognize those who have committed to conserving our water resources and protecting the environment by using attractive Florida-friendly landscaping.

Look for information about entering the next Community Water-Wise Awards in the spring of 2009.

2008 Community Water Wise Award Commercial Property Winner

Landmarc Realty

The design of Landmarc Realty's landscaping in the North Hyde Park neighborhood of Tampa creates a colorful oasis on a busy commercial roadway. The selection of plant materials are appropriate for the existing site conditions, reducing the need for excess fertilizers and pesticides that contribute to non-point source pollution. By using an alternative, organic mulch they contribute to efforts to preserve remaining cypress wetlands. Plant beds are watered with micro-irrigation, rather than a high-volume system and pathways are pervious, allowing for stormwater infiltration and reduced non-point source runoff pollution.

2008 Water Wise Award Winning Commercial Yard

2008 Community Water Wise Award Residential Property Winner

Mike Eisenfeld

The design of the Eisenfeld's yard in the Historic Hyde Park neighborhood of Tampa combines traditional aesthetic principles with modern technology. The selection of plant materials are appropriate for the existing site conditions, reducing the need for excess fertilizers and pesticides that contribute to non-point source pollution. By using an alternative, organic mulch they contribute to efforts to preserve remaining cypress wetlands. Plant beds are watered with micro-irrigation, rather than a high-volume system and pathways are pervious, allowing for stormwater infiltration and reduced non-point source runoff pollution.

2008 Water Wise Award Winning Residential Yard

Josephine Black

The design of Josephine Black's landscaping in the Bayside West neighborhood of Tampa is very inviting, with a diversity of colors and plant materials. Her selection of plant materials are appropriate for the existing site conditions, reducing the need for excess fertilizers and pesticides that contribute to non-point source pollution. By using mulch for the winding pervious pathways through the yard, she allows for the infiltration of storm water runoff. Self mulching plant beds and paths located below the tree canopy utilize free seasonally available leaves. All of her planting beds are hand-watered as needed, rather than regularly without regard to soil and plant conditions.

The Tampa Water Department congratulates Ms. Black on her award winning landscape which demonstrates Florida-friendly yards can be aesthetically pleasing while environmentally sensitive.

Virginia Overstreet

Virginia Overstreet�s home in historic Seminole Heights exudes life through vibrant colors all year round from her beautiful landscape consisting of native, Florida-friendly, tropical plants.

Two rain barrels are used to collect rainwater for the potted plants that decorate her backyard. The rest of the landscape is watered by micro-irrigation. Groundcovers have replaced areas where grass would not grow, helping to reduce erosion and storm water runoff from her property. Bricks and cobblestones that lead to her front door allow water to percolate through the soil to recharge the aquifer and add a welcoming gesture to her home.