New Landscapes Beginning Fall 2025
SAMLARC’s blueprint includes 300+ acres of parks, trails, slopes, and greenbelts. However, California’s newest water mandate (AB 1572) prohibits using potable water to irrigate “ nonfunctional turf grass ” areas like parkway turf and the mow strips on Avenida De Las Flores. SAMLARC’s Turf Conversion Program is renovating these areas with beauty, water efficiency, and Member dollars in mind.
For the past 9 years, SAMLARC has converted specific nonfunctional turf grass areas into waterwise and efficient landscapes. Each project has been completed at little to no cost , backed by grants and rebates from the Municipal Water District of Orange County. SAMLARC has completed 7 projects to date, spanning over 260,000 ft . The program aligns with state laws, optimizes irrigation, and fosters a hardy ecosystem! The next chapter in this sustainability story takes place along Avenida De Las Flores. We invite you to follow the updates at SAMLARC.org/projects.
The Board of Directors is proud to lead a community that cares deeply for neighbors, friends, and the environment. We appreciate your patience as we create a resilient community!
Project Scope:
Turf grass between the curbs and sidewalks on Las Flores (mow strips).
Timeline:
- Quarter 4 2025 : Project areas are prepped and dying turf is removed. Trees stay in place - they are key water-saving “devices” and give Las Flores its distinctive color.
- Quarter 1 2026 : Drip irrigation systems replace the current spray heads. Installation of hardy, low-water, and harmonious plants.
- Onward: Plants establish root systems over the next two years. After the plants mature, SAMLARC’s irrigation needs are anticipated to drop by 50% in these areas!
Plant Palette Includes:
- Dwarf bottlebrush
- Society garlic
- Star jasmine
- Toyon
- Green carpet natal plum
- Note: Plant palette may vary based on the sunlight/soil conditions of each planter area
