Design Your Sustainable Garden

Build a sustainable garden with native California plants and learn best practices for water use efficiency with informative workshops presented by Metropolitan Water District. The workshops are available in person and online to help customers make landscape changes that provide savings and identify water overuse. Water conservation efforts have changed with the seasonal rain, but efficient water use is always the path to prepare for future periods of limited water supply. Explore below for free programs available to Rainbow Water customers. 

Rain to Roots: Water Your Garden

Date: Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Time: 6:00 - 7:15 PM
Class Sponsored By: Metropolitan Water District in partnership with Long Beach Utilities Department
Registration: Advanced registration required for the free event. Please complete the online sign up form.
Class Venue: Virtual via Zoom

Learn how to turn rain into a resource! This class explores the best management practices for capturing rainwater in the landscape using both passive and active methods. Whether you're planning a rain garden, swales, or storage tanks, we'll help you make informed, practical decision for your site.

Topics include:

• Choosing the right rainwater capture mathod for your landscape
• Siting and sizing rain gardens for optimal performance
• Managing inflow and overflow to prevent erosion and flooding
• Maintenance tips and troubleshooting common issues

Transforming Lawns: A Sustainable Approach

Date: Tuesday, January 13, 2025
Time: 6:00 - 7:15 PM
Class Sponsored By: Metropolitan Water District in partnership with Long Beach Utilities Department
Registration: Advanced registration required for the free event. Please complete the online sign up form.
Class Venue: Virtual via Zoom

Thinking about removing your lawn? Join us for a class on turf replacement where you'll learn how to transform your yard into a beautiful, sustainable, and water-efficient landscape. This session covers everything from soil preparation and microclimates to site planning and irrigation strategies that support long-term conservation.

We will guide you through:

• Selecting climate-appropriate plant palettes
• Considering turf removal options and rebates
• Planning a new landscape that thrives with less water
• Exploring sustainable landscape techniques and functions

California Friendly & Native Plant Landscape Training

Date: Tuesday, January 27, 2025
Time: 6:00 - 7:15 PM
Class Sponsored By: Metropolitan Water District in partnership with Long Beach Utilities Department
Registration: Advanced registration required for the free event. Please complete the online sign up form.
Class Venue: Virtual via Zoom

Transform your outdoor space into a beautiful, water-efficient landscape with our California Friendly® & Native Plant Landscape Training. This engaging and practical course introduces participants to the core principles of sustainable landscaping, tailored specifically for California’s unique climate and ecology.

Participants will learn how to:

• Build Healthy Living Soil – Discover the importance of soil biology and techniques to nurture nutrient-rich, water-retaining soil.
• Capture Rainwater – Explore simple strategies to slow, spread, and store rainwater to reduce runoff and replenish groundwater.
• Select Climate-Appropriate & Native Plants – Choose vibrant, low-maintenance plants that support local biodiversity and thrive with minimal water.
• Use High-Efficiency Irrigation – Implement smart irrigation systems and best practices that reduce waste and save money.

The course includes helpful information on current rebate programs, making it easier to start your sustainable landscaping journey!

 

 

Questions

Email questions to: mwd@greenmediacreations.com

Call for support or class inquiries: (909) 252-7670

Be sure to include the date of the class in your email. Get more information about removing your lawn and creating a beautiful new landscape at www.greenmediacreations.com/mwd

Please note: All residents within Metropolitan Water District’s service area are welcome to attend this class. To confirm if your local water agency is located within MWD's boundaries, you may check here.