March Field Air Museum Landscape Transformation

A new water-wise landscape transformation is coming to March Field Air Museum


Western Water, in partnership with the March Field Air Museum, is transforming 20,000 square feet of non-functional turf into a vibrant landscape filled with native and climate-appropriate plants.

This project supports compliance with the California State Water Resources Control Board's non-functional turf regulation (Assembly Bill 1572), models regional collaboration, and offers a real-world example of sustainable landscaping for the community. Once complete, the landscape transformation is expected to save about 94,000 gallons of water each year and contribute to long-term water reliability for our region while inspiring visitors looking to create sustainable landscapes at home.

What to expect

  • Construction is scheduled from August 2025 to January 2026.
  • The museum will remain open during this time, with no impact to water service.
  • Visitors may notice crews near the courtyard while the landscape transformation takes shape.

Sample site images

The images below illustrate what the space will look like once construction is complete.

Rendering of the March Air Field Museum landscape of non-functional turf, water-wise garden
Rendering of the March Air Field Museum landscape of non-functional turf, water-wise garden

What is Assembly Bill 1572?

Assembly Bill 1572 is a California state law that prohibits the use of potable (drinking) water to irrigate non-functional grass and lawns that serve no recreational or functional purpose on commercial, industrial, or institutional properties. The ban takes effect in stages:

  • 2027 - Properties owned by local governments
  • 2028 - Commercial and industrial properties
  • 2029 - Common areas of homeowners’ associations
  • 2031 – Properties owned by local governments in disadvantaged communities or when state funding for turf replacement is available

By completing the landscape transformation ahead of the enforcement date, Western Water is taking proactive steps to comply with the law and support the conservation of the region’s drinking water supply.

What is non-functional turf?

Non-functional turf refers to grass that exists solely for decorative purposes and is not actively used for recreation, sports, or regular foot traffic by people or pets. This includes lawn areas along sidewalks, medians, or in front of office buildings where the grass is maintained purely for appearance. Replacing these areas with climate-appropriate landscaping supports water conservation efforts and helps create more sustainable outdoor spaces.

Contact us

For more information, contact Western Water’s Customer Service team at 951.571.7104 or send us an email.