Gilbert considers $250,000 plan to expand grass removal program amid Colorado River drought

Gilbert leaders are considering a $250,000 plan to expand a grass removal rebate program as the town faces growing pressure on its Colorado River water supply.

The Town Council is expected to look at a resolution this week on whether to apply for a $125,000 federal grant through the Bureau of Reclamation's WaterSMART Small-Scale Water Efficiency Project. The total cost of the project with a match would bring the budget to $250,000.

The funding would expand Gilbert's Non-Residential Grass Removal Rebate Program.

The 41 percent that comes from the Colorado River is at risk right now because of ongoing drought. Lauren Hixson, Gilbert's water resources manager, said the water supply is an overallocated system where there is more demand than there is supply.

Since the program launched in May 2023, 15 projects have removed 149,600 square feet of grass. Town staff said they estimate each square foot removed saves about 50 gallons of water per year. The new funding could support the removal of an additional 40,000 square feet.

The urgency is compounded by how water is used locally. Nearly 70 percent of the town's potable water is used outdoors. Jeremiah Churchill, Gilbert's water resources and conservation coordinator, said it is more important than ever to protect and conserve water and to use it efficiently.

Gilbert leaders are weighing whether the investment makes sense given the environmental challenges facing the Colorado River watershed.