By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
The 2020 WaterSmart Landscape Award winners have been announced by the city of Hays and the Department of Water Resources, although the presentation was different this year due to the coronavirus.
The commercial and residential winners were chosen by the Ellis County Extension Master Gardeners from submitted nominees submitted.
Residential Property winners Dale and Sherry Chaffin, 3501 Hillcrest, and Commercial Property winner Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority, 409 W. 8th, were recognized by Mayor Shaun Musil during a short ceremony Sept. 21 in the Downtown Hays Pavilion.
The Fort Hays State University sorority was represented by Liz Haury, chapter advisor, and Kathie Taylor, property advisor and past chapter advisor.
"The goal of the award program is to increase awareness of the importance of water conservation in the landscape," said Holly Dickman, Hays water conservation specialist, "and to recognize those in the community that have made great strides towards that effort."
"A WaterSmart landscape involves more than just watering plants correctly. It is actually the combination of several gardening principles that together create a landscape that not only conserves water but is creative and beautiful as well," Dickman explained.
The principles of a WaterSmart landscape include:
1) Planning and Design
2) Soil Preparation
3) Right Plants in the Right Place
4) Practical Turf Areas
5) Efficient Irrigation
6) Proper Mulch
7) Proper Maintenance
Since 2016, one residential and one commercial property has been chosen to receive a WaterSmart Landscape Award.
Additional information regarding WaterSmart Landscaping can be found at www.watersmarthays.com.