$250K Expansion of Grass Removal Rebates to Combat Colorado River Water Crisis | 17GEN4 News
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Gilbert Weighs $250,000 Boost to Grass Removal Rebates to Safeguard Colorado River Water Supply
GILBERT, Ariz. — May 5, 2026 — Amid mounting concerns over Arizona’s shrinking share of Colorado River water, the Town of Gilbert is considering a significant expansion of its popular grass removal rebate program with a $250,000 initiative aimed at accelerating water conservation efforts.
Town leaders are scheduled to review a resolution this week seeking a $125,000 federal grant through the Bureau of Reclamation’s WaterSMART Small-Scale Water Efficiency Project. If approved, the grant — paired with a local match — would fund a major expansion of Gilbert’s Non-Residential Grass Removal Rebate Program, which targets businesses, HOAs, and other large water users.
“The 41% that comes from the Colorado River is at risk right now because of ongoing drought,” said Lauren Hixson, Gilbert’s water resources manager. “It’s an overallocated system, meaning there’s more demand than there is supply.”
Since launching the residential grass removal program in May 2023, Gilbert has seen 15 projects remove more than 149,600 square feet of turf. Officials estimate that each square foot of grass removed saves approximately 50 gallons of water per year. The proposed funding could enable the removal of an additional 40,000 square feet.
Nearly 70% of Gilbert’s potable water is currently used outdoors, according to water resources and conservation coordinator Jeremiah Churchill, underscoring the urgency of shifting to low-water-use desert landscaping.
Current Rebate Offerings
Residential: Up to $2,000 (plus up to $1,000 bonus incentive) for converting grass to low-water-use landscapes.
Non-Residential (businesses/HOAs): Up to $30,000 per project for larger-scale conversions.
All rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis and require replacement with qualifying drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation systems. Applications must be submitted before work begins, as they are not retroactive.
This latest push comes as Gilbert continues broader water-saving initiatives, including the recent conversion of turf at multiple town parks to xeriscape landscaping using state grants. Town officials emphasize that voluntary conservation now will help protect long-term water reliability for the growing East Valley community.
The Town Council discussion and potential vote on the grant application are expected in the coming days. Residents and business owners interested in the existing programs can find details and apply at gilbertaz.gov/WaterRebates.
17GEN4 News will provide updates as the council considers the proposal.
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$250K Expansion of Grass Removal Rebates to Combat Colorado River Water Crisis | 17GEN4 News
Gilbert, AZ is eyeing a $250,000 boost to its grass removal rebate program — including a $125K federal grant — to accelerate water conservation amid ongoing Colorado River drought concerns. Details on residential and non-residential rebates, water savings, and next steps. Latest from 17GEN4 News – May 5, 2026.