Plan to Plant Event Delivers Inspiration & Firewise Information

There was a buzz in the Water Works Garden at Santa Margarita Water District on Saturday morning as nearly 100 community members gathered at Santa Margarita Water District's Plan to Plant Garden Expo - a free event dedicated to helping customers create beautiful, low-maintenance, and fire-safe landscapes that make the most of every drop of water.

Attendees explored how to transform their yards into water-wise sanctuaries - with expert-led demonstrations, hands-on education, and real-world advice they could apply immediately.

Whether you were a seasoned gardener or just getting started with your first succulent, this event offered something for everyone.

A Warm Welcome, and a Firewise Focus
The morning began with a friendly welcome from Amelia Herndon-Steen SMWD's Water Use Efficiency Manager, who set the tone for a relaxed and engaging day of learning and inspiration.

Then Andrew Amante, an inspector with the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA), delivered an eye-opening presentation on how homeowners can stay in compliance with AB 3074, the new regulation requiring defensible space for properties in Very High Hazard Fire Severity Zones. He explained what inspectors look for - from vegetation clearance to home hardening - and how small changes can significantly impact safety.

Following the talk, guests split into groups. One joined Andrew for a mock inspection, while the other participated in a live pruning demonstration led by Wendy Proud of the Kinship League.

Pruning, Plants, and Practical Takeaways
Wendy Proud from the Kinship League provided a demonstration that offered hands-on tips for pruning, improving plant health while aligning with fire-safe landscaping guidelines. Meanwhile, Andrew's inspection walk-through took attendees through real examples of what's in - and out - of compliance in a garden setting.

One highlight of the day was a live demo showing the replacement of a non-compliant garden section with a fire-compliant one - complete with OCFA-approved pots from Steven's Garden and fire-resistant plant selections. Guests got to see exactly what a smart, safe transition could look like in their own homes.

Later, Tom JeschofWaterwise Botanicals shared his expertise on fire-resistant plant choices from his nursery. Not only were these options stunning, but they're also built to thrive in our Southern California climate - with low water needs and high curb appeal.

And finally, Steven's Garden provided inspiration for adding stylish, fire-safe pots and materials that elevate a landscape without compromising safety.

Raffles, Real Change, and Community Connections
The event concluded with a raffle giveaway, during which 15 lucky participants took home a plant to help kick-start or expand their firewise gardens.

One attendee shared, "The workshop was well-organized, and the information was clear, usable, and relevant. I was lucky enough to win a plant, which inspired us to go home, remove the mulch next to our house, and plant the succulent we received, along with some of the available cuttings. With the help of SMWD, we're enjoying our new look and feeling much better that we have a landscape that is more fire-resistant."

That's exactly what the Water Use Efficiency team at SMWD hoped to accomplish - to empower residents with resources, guidance, and inspiration to make lasting changes that benefit both their homes and the planet.

SMWD is committed to supporting our community with tools, classes, and personalized help to make water-efficient, fire-safe landscaping not only achievable - but enjoyable.

To learn more about upcoming workshops, rebates, and landscaping tips, visit smwd.com/events and smwd.com/rebates.

"Thanks to everyone who attended and made the day such a success - and to our incredible partners at OCFA, Kinship League, Waterwise Botanicals, and Steven's Garden for their knowledge and passion," said Herdon-Steen.

See you at the next event!