Colorado’s worst drought in a century is reshaping how we use water — let Don King Landscaping help you stay compliant, save money, and keep your property beautiful.
Colorado is experiencing one of the driest winters in more than a century of records. Here’s what local governments are doing — and what it means for your yard.
On March 20, 2026, the Town of Erie escalated directly to Drought Emergency status — the highest level possible — targeting a 45%+ reduction in water use. Sprinkler systems must be off. Town officials are actively monitoring and can shut off water at the tap for violators.
On March 25, 2026, Denver Water unanimously approved Stage 1 restrictions — the first time since 2013. Lawn watering is limited to two days per week, restaurants serve water only on request, and all customers must cut use by 20%.
Colorado River snowpack has hit the worst level on record in Denver Water’s history. South Platte snowpack is similarly catastrophic. State watersheds are at only 38–65% of normal levels. Governor Polis has activated the Colorado Drought Task Force.
Erie is seeing water demand 30% higher than typical for this time of year — equivalent to late April usage. The town’s winter pipeline supplies just 3.5 million gallons/day, wholly inadequate for early irrigation demand.
Aurora is moving to Stage 1 rules limiting watering to two days per week. Lafayette has asked residents to halt irrigation. Thornton is also under restrictions. Fines start at $125 and escalate; service interruption is possible for repeat violations.
The Chimney Hollow Reservoir project — jointly funded by Erie, Superior, Broomfield, Louisville & Longmont — was delayed after uranium was found in dam granite. Water delivery is now expected sometime in 2026 with no firm date. This drought isn’t a one-year story.
The writing is on the wall — the traditional irrigated lawn is becoming a liability across the Front Range. The smart move is transforming your landscape now, before fines, before mandatory turf removal orders, and while Don King Landscaping has availability.
Water restrictions don’t have to mean a dead yard. Our water-smart services let you stay compliant, lower your water bill, and create a landscape that’s more beautiful — and more resilient — than before.
Xeriscape isn’t “zero-scape” — it’s smart-scape. We design lush, thriving landscapes that need up to 60% less water than traditional lawns. Colorado HB19-1050 even restricts HOAs from blocking xeriscape — your right to go water-smart is protected by law.
Colorado’s climate is naturally arid — and the right plants thrive in it. We source and install proven performers that survive dry summers, brutal winters, and everything in between, all while looking spectacular.
Raised beds use dramatically less water than in-ground planting because you control the soil, drainage, and moisture. Grow vegetables, herbs, or ornamentals efficiently — even under restrictions, hand-watering trees, shrubs, and gardens remains permitted in Erie.
If you’re still running spray heads, you’re wasting water and money. We upgrade and optimize irrigation systems with smart controllers, drip emitters, and soil moisture sensors — delivering water only where and when it’s needed.
Remove thirsty turf and replace it with water-wise alternatives that still look stunning year-round. Erie and many Front Range communities offer rebates for turf replacement — we’ll help you maximize those savings.
A thick layer of quality mulch can reduce soil moisture loss dramatically — keeping your existing plants alive and healthy even when watering is severely restricted. We supply and install organic and decorative mulch across your entire property.
Leading Landscaping Service in Erie, CO Since 1976.
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Tuesday: 7:30am- 4pm
Wednesday: 7:30am- 4pm
Thursday: 7:30am- 4pm
Friday: 7:30am- 4pm
Saturday: 7:30am- 4pm
Sunday: CLOSED