Project Overview

The CCUH, Biological and Agricultural Engineering Department and the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences have joined forces with the SmartFarm initiative and are partnering with over thirty horticultural professional companies, agencies and private donors to create “SmartLandscape” at UC Davis. The CCUH will expand knowledge of “key” landscape water conservation practices learned from conducting over 35 irrigation management workshops for landscape professionals on this project and will provide educational opportunities for undergraduate students. 

The latest available irrigation technology will be employed with the ability to disperse water, measure applied water and to validate landscape water savings. Additionally, this site will utilize sustainable management practices along with low water-use plants and landscape best management practices. 

Progress of SmartLandscape is well underway with eight, cool season turf plots, two warm season turf plots, two turf alternative Kurapia plots, and multiple mixed landscape zones installed. All of these installations utilize various cutting edge irrigation, water sensor technology, and water efficient plant species.  SmartLandscape presents an exciting opportunity for students as the majority of the installations are led and implemented by student intern teams.  Interns are exposed to hands-on-experience, leadership experience, as well as the opportunity to work directly with industry professionals, faculty and staff.

For more information on our student intern teams, and photo documentation of SmartLandscape progress, feel free to watch the video below or peruse the Summary & Updates presentation, or explore the individual projects from the side menu. The SmartLandscape initiative will provide a nexus with researchers, industry professionals, agencies, NGO’s and students showcasing landscape water conservation and water use efficiency.

Click here to see our SmartLandscape 2021 End of Year Recap video

• Project Goals
• Demonstrate irrigation technology
  Demonstrate best management practices
  Measure and monitor landscape water use
  Demonstrate low water use plant material
  Provide "hands-on" educational opportunities for students
  Connect industry professionals with academic researchers & students
  Conduct science-based research
  Demonstrate water conserving & efficient landscapes
  Connect junior college horticultural programs

Campus-based Partners

Industry Partners