Funded by the Coastal Conservancy and Prop 1, Daily Acts is partnering with the Sonoma County Water Agency, Conservation Corps North Bay (CCNB) and three Sonoma County schools to convert 20,000 square feet of lawn and asphalt into water conscious habitat gardens. Beginning October 17th 2017 and continuing through spring 2018, Daily Acts will work with crews from CCNB at the Santa Rosa Junior College, El Molino High School and Guerneville School to sheet mulch, dig rain gardens, and install irrigation and plant water-wise species.
The Guerneville School transformation began on March 5th, 2018 where CCNB and Daily Acts staff worked to convert 1,547 square feet of landscape to conserve 19,337 gallons of water per year. The design featured plants that were hardy and could withstand potential trampling by children as this area is located next to the new playground. Due to a large number of evergreen trees and the proximity to a Russian River tributary, native plants were selected that would thrive in this setting. During the second week, Daily Acts contracted with rainwater harvesting expert and designer, Sebastian Bertsch of Permaculture Artisans to design and lead the install of the catchment system.
The site also included an outdoor classroom space with raised beds, a greenhouse and a kitchen space which made for an additional way for students and faculty to engage with sustainability efforts. Raised beds were installed by Avalow, a local company working to support easy and enjoyable food production with their innovative self-watering raised beds.
