OGDEN, Utah — Homeowners in Ogden City can now apply for rebates to replace traditional grass lawns with more sustainable plants and landscaping through the Weber Basin Water Conservancy District’s ‘Landscape Lawn Exchange’ program. This eligibility for Ogden residents began a few weeks ago, making funds available for those looking to conserve water. The program aims to help residents transition to landscapes that use shrubs and climate-adapted vegetation with drip irrigation, which is substantially more efficient, according to Jon Parry with the district.
The program provides financial incentives to homeowners who swap turf for water-efficient alternatives. Ogden City had previously hesitated to join the program. Terry Johnson, an Ogden resident who had already cut his backyard grass quantity by about 50 percent two years ago, found he couldn’t apply for the front yard program initially. Cindy Reinhard with Ogden City explained that the city's concern was a record placed against the property after a lawn exchange. This record would mean if the home were sold, and a new owner wanted to replant turf, they would be required to pay back the full rebate. However, Ogden City joined the program a few weeks ago, allowing residents like Johnson to qualify for funds.
Ogden residents wishing to participate must now complete a land use permit application with Ogden City. According to Jon Parry, this step ensures Ogden City is aware that these transitions are taking place within landscapes. Cindy Reinhard stated that this process also helps residents understand what they are committing to and any potential conditions that might arise later. Ogden residents qualify for $1.25 per square foot of their yard. This amount is specific to Ogden because the city has not adopted certain ordinances that would enable residents to receive matching state funds, according to the source material. Jon Parry noted that this $1.25 per square foot rebate is likely to cover about 50 percent of the overall cost, which includes plant material, mulch, and modifications to irrigation systems.
The Weber Basin Water Conservancy District encourages the reduction of turf, especially in new growth and developments, and in areas where irrigation has historically been less efficient. This includes park strips, certain slopes, and areas making up less than 35 percent of the space that can be watered, Jon Parry explained. Despite the push for water conservation, Ogden City maintains a stance that residents should have choices. Cindy Reinhard emphasized, “We want Ogden residents to be free to do with their lawns what they want to do.” She also noted that the city does not want to compel anyone into financially burdensome situations.
Terry Johnson, who has lived in Ogden for a long time, voiced his personal motivation for participating, stating, "For me to have to mow and water and feed 270 sq. feet of turf that I don’t need is a waste of money; it costs a lot to water that.” He highlighted the importance of water conservation, calling fresh water "the most valuable resource we have on the planet." Johnson expressed a desire to see more incentives from the city to encourage residents to make the lawn swap. The Weber Basin Water Conservancy District has observed growing interest in the program, with Jon Parry reporting about double the applications this year compared to previous years. Parry also mentioned that Ogden City is not unique in its specific eligibility category; other cities and municipalities are in a similar position, meaning rebate eligibility can vary depending on where a resident lives.
