Mayor Eric Enriquez, City of Las Cruces | City of Las Cruces
The City of Las Cruces Water Conservation has revealed the schedule for the 2024 Spring 2 Lush and Lean Program. The program offers free workshops on select Thursdays in April and May aimed at promoting water conservation and sustainable gardening practices.
The workshops will take place at the Branigan Memorial Library Roadrunner Room, located at 200 E. Picacho Avenue, starting at 5:45 p.m. The schedule includes a variety of topics presented by experts in the field.
Marisa Thompson, Ph.D., Extension Urban Horticulture Specialist at NMSU, will kick off the series on April 4 with a discussion on Climate-Ready Trees and planting strategies for a warmer future. Thompson stated, "The Climate-Ready Trees Project in New Mexico focuses on identifying tree species that are resilient to future climate conditions."
On April 11, David Lyman, Doña Ana County Master Gardener Intern, will delve into the use of Architectural Plants for the Zone 8 Garden. Lyman expressed, "Let’s talk about using nature to create striking architecture in your outdoor space."
Kevin Floyd, Ph.D., Botanical Curator of the Chihuahuan Desert Gardens at UTEP, will lead a workshop on Planting for Pollinators on April 18. Floyd emphasized the importance of incorporating native plants to attract butterflies and bees, stating, "Learn how to invite them into your yard by incorporating native plants."
Sylvia Hacker, Doña Ana County Master Gardener and Naturalist, will discuss Habitat Gardening on May 9, focusing on ways to create a conservation-friendly urban landscape. Hacker encouraged participants to "make your urban landscape a conservation stepping stone."
The series will conclude on May 23 with a Pruning Workshop led by Les Finley, a Horticulturist and ISA Certified Arborist, aimed at teaching homeowners how to properly prune trees and shrubs for long-term sustainability.
For more information on the Lush and Lean Program or to register for the workshops, individuals can contact (575) 528-3566 or visit the City of Las Cruces Water Conservation website.
