Real Transformations, Real Savings: Irvine Valley College’s Waterwise Campus Makeover

August 2026

Irvine Valley College transformed more than 34,500 square feet of unused grass into a beautiful, water-efficient landscape that will save an estimated 1.5 million gallons of water every year.

Covering an area larger than seven basketball courts, the new landscape features more than 100 trees, including Eastern redbud, Western redbud, Jerusalem thorn, Monterey pine, California sycamore, Coast live oak, and Cork oak. Through MWDOC’s Turf Replacement Program, the transformation includes 8,000 California native and climate-appropriate plants that provide year-round beauty, support local wildlife, and use less water than traditional lawns.

The project was designed to make the most of every drop of water. The landscape is irrigated with recycled water, and efficient drip irrigation delivers water directly to plant roots, reducing waste and improving plant health.

By replacing thirsty turf with a sustainable landscape, Irvine Valley College created a greener, more resilient campus for students, staff, and visitors while demonstrating how water-efficient landscaping can benefit schools and communities throughout Orange County.

Ready to transform your landscape and save water? Rebates are available for homeowners as well as commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, including businesses, schools, cities, and homeowners’ associations.

Visit mwdoc.com/rebates or email turfremoval@mwdoc.com to learn more about turf replacement rebates and other water-saving landscape programs.