2012 Class Schedule

Colorado Springs Utilities is committed to the intelligent use of water. We provide free classes with experienced instructors to help you make the best use of this precious resource.

If there are two dates listed, you only need to attend one of them. 

• Download a PDF copy of the schedule.

More Information

• Facility map and directions for parking

Discover the Possibilities of Xeriscape
Monday, April 9 or Thursday, May 10
6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

• Gain inspiration from beautiful examples of water-wise Colorado landscapes. Explore successful approaches that work in our climate.
• Instructor: Catherine Moravec

Get a Plan! Fundamentals of Landscape Planning and Design
Saturday, April 14
9 to 11 a.m.

• Learn from an experienced designer how to begin creating a thoughtful plan, how to approach common challenges and essential do’s and don’ts.
• Instructor: Lisa Somnis

Make Your Plan a Reality: Landscape Renovation Steps
Saturday, April 21 or Saturday, May 12
9 a.m. to noon

• Discover the required steps to go from a plan to a finished landscape. Learn how to modify your existing sprinkler system to fit your new landscape plan.
• Instructors: Catherine Moravec and Joe Dixon

Rethinking Your Bluegrass Lawn: Practical Alternatives
Saturday, May 19
9 to 11 a.m.

• Gain knowledge of low-water options for alternative turf grasses and open green spaces, plus what’s required to install and maintain them.
• Instructor: Carey Harrington

• Learn about the colorful perennial flowers and grasses that thrive in our climate and add color, texture, and interesting form to your yard.
• Instructor: Scott Winter

• Frustrated by deer? Discover deer-resistant plants and deterring landscaping strategies from a long-time Rockrimmon xeriscape gardener.
• Instructor: Ann Seymour

• Native plants can save water, be more sustainable and reduce the need for pesticides. Hear about easy to grow native trees, shrubs and perennials, and how to use them in the landscape.
• Instructor: Lisa Bird

Save Water the Easy Way: Rain Sensors for Home Sprinklers
Saturday, July 14
9 to 10:30 a.m.

• Interested in an easy water-saving upgrade to your automatic sprinkler system? Find out the benefits of a rain sensor, how to install it and available rebates.
• Instructor: Eric Becker
• The first 50 people to register will receive a free wireless rain sensor.
• To register call 668-8232.
• Must be a Colorado Springs Utilities water customer and provide account number when registering.
• Must be in attendance to receive the rain sensor.

Low Water Bulletproof Trees 
Tuesday, July 24, 6:30 to 8 p.m. or
Saturday, July 28, 9 to 10:30 a.m.

• Before you make one of the biggest investments in your landscape, learn about the large trees, ornamental trees and conifers trees that perform well in the Colorado Springs area.
• Instructor: Becky Wegner 

Planning the Garden for Fall and Winter Interest
Wednesday, Sept. 11, 6:30 to 8 p.m. or
Saturday, Sept. 15, 9 to 10:30 a.m.

• During our six brown months, including enduring plants, architectural elements and focal points are essential to a pleasing landscape. Learn how to use these components wisely to create year-round beauty.
• Instructor: Cheryl Conklin

• Maintain your investment. Learn about which plants to cut back or leave standing, weed control, tree protection, winter watering, insect and disease management and getting your lawn through the winter.
• Instructor: Catherine Moravec

Xeriscape Demonstration Garden Tours
Thursday, June 14, July 19 or Aug. 16
4 to 4:45 p.m. or 5:30 to 6:15 p.m.

• We’ll show you what low-water plants look like in their mature form, point out solutions to common landscape challenges and highlight eye-catching plant combinations.