Xeriscaping Campaign
Do you live in an area that is prone to drought (for part or all of the year)? Xeriscaping is a type of landscaping done in areas that are prone to drought. It uses drought-resistant or low water requiring species to create an attractive landscape. This strategy has environmental benefits and it also saves money because it incorporates use of plants that are hearty and don’t need to be watered or maintained regularly. Learn more about this creative strategy for beautification of public and private spaces and spread awareness in your community.
How do I get started? Download our Stand Out from the Pack - Campaign PDF. Learn more about weather and gardening in your area, and xeriscaping generally. Talk to community leaders, local landscapers and local maintenance and beautification crews. Build a model to illustrate Then start a group and launch your campaign.
How do I expand this narrative arc? f you’re interested in environment and community activism, think about also doing one one of the following:
Launch a White Roof Project in which community buildings with dark roofs are repainted with white elastomeric paint that reflects rather than absorbs heat.
Plant a rain garden in your community to better manage and divert water when precipitation does occur.
If you live in an urban area (or one that has issues environmental contamination), Save the Earth with Sunflowers (which draw heavy metals from the soil).
Promote energy conservation through Ecolympics.
HOT TIP: Your xeriscaping campaign is a really cool project on its own, but you’ll get more mileage if it links into your narrative arc. Are you interested in politics and community engagement? Or science and sustainability? Make sure that there’s a connection between this valuable extracurricular and other themes and activities on your resume.