Granite School District appreciates the concerns regarding landscaping and water use at the new Skyline High School campus brought by Denise Antacle in a Salt Lake Tribune letter to the editor on May 21. Granite recognizes the importance of responsible water use and has taken significant steps to reduce irrigation needs while creating a safe, functional and welcoming environment for students.
Many areas that traditionally would have been grass were instead designed with drought-resistant rock, shrubs and drip irrigation systems. Grassy areas were intentionally limited to athletic fields, student activity spaces, outdoor learning areas and gathering spaces. Aside from athletic fields, only 9% of the campus footprint is grass. The campus also includes a turf playfield and stadium surface, which requires substantially less water than natural grass.
In her letter to The Tribune, Antacle suggested replacing grassy gathering areas with xeriscaping after a small portion was damaged by vandalism after its installation. While the district continually evaluates water-conservation opportunities, redesigning and reconstructing these spaces would cost well over $100,000, compared to the relatively modest cost of a few hundred dollars to repair the damaged sod. Again, these areas were intentionally designed to provide students with places to gather and learn, which is specifically protected under previous and new state design regulations.
Granite complies with all applicable water-use requirements and restrictions and remains committed to responsible water management. While we make every effort to water overnight, community members may occasionally notice daytime watering when systems are being tested or repaired.
We appreciate the community’s help in ensuring appropriate water use. If community members notice a sprinkler malfunction, irrigation concern, or other maintenance issue, please contact customerservice@graniteschools.org or 385-646-5000 during business hours. After-hours concerns can be reported to 801-481-7122.
Luke Allen, associate director, communications and community outreach, Granite School District