Western Water is transforming 8,860 square feet of non-recreational grass surrounding the Bergamont Pump Station into a sustainable, water-wise landscape. This project reflects the agency’s ongoing commitment to long-term water conservation. Once complete, this garden will offer a space where customers can gather ideas and learn how to create their own beautiful, sustainable landscapes at home.

Other grass areas within the park space will be unaffected.

In response to Assembly Bill (AB) 1572, Western Water is transforming non-function turf at its facilities into a water-wise landscape.

By completing the landscape transformation, Western Water is: 

• Conserving nearly 76,000 gallons of water each year.
• Supporting long-term sustainability goals for our region. 
• Ensuring early compliance with state regulations.
• Demonstrating community leadership in water conservation.

Assembly Bill (AB) 1572 is a state law that prohibits the use of potable (drinking) water to irrigate non-functional grass that serves no recreational or functional purpose on commercial, industrial, or institutional properties.

Enforcement begins on January 1, 2027, for public agencies and facilities. Since the Bergamont Pump Station is a public facility, the surrounding grass qualifies as non-functional grass under this law. By completing the garden transformation ahead of the deadline, Western Water is taking proactive steps to comply with state regulations and help conserve our region’s drinking water supply.

The project is estimated to begin in late 2025 to early 2026.

Non-functional turf refers to grass that serves no active purpose other than appearance. It’s not used for recreation, sports, or regular foot traffic by people or pets. 

Examples include: 

• Decorative grass along sidewalks or medians 
• Grass in front of office buildings that isn’t walked or played on 
• Lawn areas that are maintained purely for aesthetics and not for active use

By identifying and replacing non-functional turf, we can conserve water and support a more sustainable landscape.

No. Water service in the area will not be affected, and public access around the pump station will not be impacted.

The project is a partnership between Western Water and the City of Riverside.