Letter: Switch to desert landscaping is wise, practical

Wednesday, May 8, 2002 | 8:45 a.m.

I have a real smart friend who came from my hometown back East. He bought a home in Summerlin with a beautiful view of the Las Vegas Valley. When my wife and I saw it for the first time we were impressed by the lovely lawn, both in front and back.

We went back a few months later and the grass was gone. In its place was beautiful desert landscaping. He told me it wasn't practical to live in a desert and have an East Coast lawn.

He also said it cost a small fortune to maintain a lawn. Compared to his neighbors' lawns, his new landscaping looked more natural.

I also have a friend in Arizona who built a home on a big lot. He also went for desert landscaping. He has a roadrunner that keeps the varmints in check.

Both my friends know the importance of preserving water.

In the Las Vegas Valley, there is no need for grass or non-desert plantings, except for around schools, parks, golf courses and some municipal buildings. I know landscaping is a big business, but you can't drink money. So let's stop complaining about water and start doing something about it.

JOHN TOMINSKY