News

At its June 17 meeting, Olivenhain Municipal Water District’s Board of Directors honored the Edingfield-Murphy family of Escondido as OMWD’s 2015 winner of the annual California-Friendly Landscape Contest. The Edingfield-Murphys were recognized for their exemplary water conservation efforts and water-efficient landscaping.

The couple decided to install a California-friendly landscape in August of 2007 in support of water conservation efforts and they plan to continue this landscape practice into the future.

“We are Southern California natives and scientists,” said C.J. Edingfield-Murphy. “We understand that life is dependent upon water and conservation of this resource is of the utmost importance for the survival of all living things. Humans must respect the fact that our very existence is dependent upon intelligent use and management of this essential resource.”

Despite having a four-acre property, the Edingfield-Murphys conservation efforts have allowed them to consume only three to five units of water per month—an amount comparable to a mobile home.

“The Edingfield-Murphys have not only made significant reductions in their water use, but they’ve designed a beautiful landscape while doing so,” said OMWD President Ed Sprague. “As we continue to manage the impacts of the current drought, the community should view them as a model for how to go above-and-beyond in order to help reduce water consumption.”

The California-Friendly Landscape Contest is held annually by water agencies throughout San Diego County to showcase attractive landscapes that use less water than conventional turf-heavy landscapes. Contest entries are judged on curb appeal, landscape and irrigation design, and environmental considerations. More information and photos of winning landscapes are available at www.landscapecontest.com.

C.J. Edingfield-Murphy receives California-Friendly Landscape Award

California-Friendly Landscaping at the Edingfield-Murphy Residence