Enter the WaterSmart Landscape Contest – Deadline May 9

Are you proud of your water-saving landscape? Share it with others by entering this year’s WaterSmart Landscape Contest.

The deadline to enter is Friday, May 9, 2025.

Every year, the Otay Water District joins water agencies throughout San Diego County to launch the contest. One resident from each agency will earn title of “Best in District” and win a $250 plant nursery gift card of their choice.

Download the contest flyer.

Additional prizes for Otay winners include a goodie bag, a certificate of recognition, and a feature in the District’s newsletter, website, social media, and other promotional materials.

Entries are judged based on design, overall attractiveness, efficient irrigation methods, and appropriate plant selection and maintenance. Front, back, and side yards are eligible for submission.

To qualify, applicants must submit before and after photos of their landscape, a plant list, and a description of their landscape’s transformation. Nominations are also welcome.

Last year, the District proudly selected Shannon Nembach from Chula Vista as the winner. For 22 years, Nembach had taken a self-directed learning approach to tailor her landscaping to her family’s specific needs and preferences. Inspired by her travels to Italy, she transformed her outdoor space into a lush garden with pea-gravel walkways, an inviting outdoor dining area, and water-wise features that attract native wildlife. Her water-saving installations contributed to a 42% decrease in the family’s total water usage when comparing the initial 11-year period to the subsequent 11 years. See photos and read more.

For more information, including how to apply and tips to improve your entry, visit landscapecontest.com/otay.