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Olivenhain Municipal Water District, San Dieguito Water District, and Santa Fe Irrigation District invite residents to a Fire-Resistant Landscape Workshop on September 19, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The workshop will be held at 1966 Olivenhain Road in Encinitas. Attendees will learn landscaping practices that can help protect homes from wildfires.

California has seen some of its largest and most destructive wildfires in recent years. According to CAL FIRE, “fire-smart” landscaping can help prevent the spread of wildfires while conserving water.

Instructor Greg Rubin is an author and landscape designer with California’s Own Native Landscape Design, Inc. He spent five years testing the fire resistance of native plants for the US Navy. Mr. Rubin’s landscape designs include wildlife habitat, fire resistance, and water efficiency.

“I have nearly 30 years of experience with San Diego County landscapes that have survived wildfires, and none have lost a home,” said Greg Rubin. “There is no guarantee that a home won’t burn in a firestorm, but at least we have tools to create effective defensible spaces in our communities.”

Mr. Rubin will discuss how fire behaves in different landscape designs. He will also share practical strategies to make landscapes more fire-resistant.

“Wildfires are a consistent threat in our area,” said OMWD board director Ebin Lanfried. “It has never been more important to create fire-resistant landscapes to protect our homes. Many of these landscapes need less water than traditional lawns and can lower your monthly water bill.”

Space is limited. Registration is required at www.olivenhain.com/events.