REM Case Studies
Examples of successful REM programs.
Fort Huachuca - Main Gate, Arizona
When John Miller moved from his position at Fort Lewis, Washington, to be the forester at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, he tackled the job of conserving water at Fort Huachuca's main gate. John had studied forestry at the University of Washington – big trees and a wet climate were his forte – so he had to adapt his ideas of forestry to hot, dry southwest conditions. John developed a plan that, once implemented, reduced water consumption at Fort Huachuca's main gate by 99 percent and water costs by 82.5 percent in the first year.
How Did He Do It?
John recognized that the Bermuda grass had to go. With the help of volunteers, John had about 2.5 acres of the water-loving grass removed, and replaced it with decomposed granite in the natural desert hues of pinks, purples and whites. Other thirsty plants, such as the Tombstone Rose, were also removed. In their place, John planted trees from climates similar to Arizona's – Middle Eastern pines, Australian eucalyptus and mesquites – and plants that like arid environments – purple fountain grass, yucca, agave, prickly pear, desert spoon, Hesperalo and Mexican primrose. He created some relief on the flat landscape by constructing small hills, using landscape fabric to help stabilize the soil.
John achieved savings beyond water conservation. By commissioning the help of volunteers, John saved the Fort approximately $87,000 in labor costs. Recurring savings are also gained through eliminating the need for lawn mowing, fertilizing and thatching.
The next project John is planning involves capturing runoff water, called water harvesting. This project will involve building gabions across creeks to help slow runoff and form water catchment areas, some of which could hold a quarter acre of water. Trees will be planted along the edges of the creeks and water catchment areas to help stabilize the banks and store water.
John's work has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy's Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP). In 1996, he was awarded FEMP's “Beneficial Landscaping Practices Award to an Individual.”
John Miller can be reached at 520-533-5701 or email: millerj@huachuca-emh1.army.mil.
Funding for this project is provided by FEMP. For more information, visit the FEMP web site.