The WaterSmart Landscape Contest is an opportunity for residential water agency customers to showcase their best, water wise landscapes that create more beauty with less water. More information on the contest and winners from other agencies can be viewed on the WaterSmart Landscape Contest website.
To enter, fill out the 2026 WaterSmart Landscape Contest entry form (PDF), and submit the form by email or mail to Sweetwater Authority by May 8, 2026. Entries can also be submitted on the WaterSmart Landscape Contest website. The Sweetwater Authority winner will receive a gift certificate for $250.
Required materials to include with your signed entry form:
- Photos of your landscape, including at least one overall view or “curb appeal” as viewed from the street. If possible, please provide before and after photos.
- 10 photos maximum. Sweetwater Authority staff may visit your property to take additional photos.
- Maximum size of all photos attached to an email is eight (8) MB. Please resize your photos if they are large (more than 1 MB each).
- Landscape photos that include advertising or political campaign signs will not be considered.
- List of the water-wise plants in your landscape.
- Description of your watering system
- Written explanation of why you elected to install a WaterSmart landscape, the design and installation process and any unexpected benefits. We want to hear your story!
Send the contest entry form, items listed above, and photos via email to
waterefficiency@sweetwater.org or to the mailing address below. For any questions, please call (619) 409-6779.
Sweetwater Authority
WaterSmart Landscape Contest, c/o Water Efficiency Program
505 Garrett Avenue
Chula Vista, CA 91910
2025 Contest Winner
Celebrating Local Water Conservation Champions in Chula Vista
Sweetwater Authority is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 WaterSmart Landscape Contest: Patti and Don B. and Noemi G. of Chula Vista! Both homeowners have taken inspiring steps to transform their yards into beautiful, water-efficient landscapes—each with a unique approach to saving water and supporting sustainability.
Patti and Don B.: Bringing Nature Home with Native Plants
In 2023, Patti and Don were motivated by their love of nature and commitment to sustainable living to replace their traditional lawn with a WaterSmart landscape. Patti’s vision focused on planting California native species to conserve water and support local ecosystems—bringing nature back to their front yard.
With help from their son-in-law, they removed their existing grass and planted a diverse palette of natives including Cleveland Sage, Coast Buckwheat, Toyon, Matilija Poppy, California Poppy, and Apricot Mallow.
To further enhance the garden’s efficiency, they incorporated a natural swale system that captures rainwater from the roof gutters—maximizing every rainfall and helping their garden thrive with minimal irrigation
Noemi G.: A Family-Powered Greywater Oasis
Back in 2020, Noemi G. set out to reduce her water bill and support the city's conservation goals. With help from her daughter, she transformed her front yard into a low-water oasis using plants like small palms, Everlasting Palms, Aloe Vera, and King’s Sword.
To add beauty and structure, she integrated decorative rocks, pavers, and mulch—creating a vibrant, textured landscape that’s both attractive and efficient.
What sets Noemi’s landscape apart is her innovative use of greywater from her washing machine to irrigate her plants. This alternative water source reduces the need for traditional irrigation and allows her to water year-round in a sustainable way.
Congratulations to Patti, Don, and Noemi for their dedication to water conservation and creating landscapes that are both beautiful and resilient!
