Cooling Consultations
Contact Nicole Parks at nparks@watershedmg.org
Do you have a space that retains or reflects too much heat? Hire us for a consultation and a WMG staff member will come out, identify hot zones in your area and provide you with a plan to address those hot spots using the natural evaporative cooling power of plants!
Why use plants, instead of a shade structure?
Due to the heat island effect, Tucson has increased in temperature by 7 degrees and in combination with climate change has increased by 12 degrees compared to historic temperatures. A big part of that is the heat retained by concrete and other man-made materials that release the heat once the sun has gone down. A rain garden, with mulched ground in conjunction with plants that transpire allows for spaces to be dramatically cooler. Plus you get the added benefit of creating habitat for birds and other wildlife, and mental/physical wellness as these spaces are quieter, cooler and are aesthetically beautiful.
What we offer:
Option 1- Site Visit
A one hour onsite visit where we assess hot spots and view current resources you have onsite that can be used to cool your space. You will receive a heat assessment map, resource map, and a native plant guide.
Option 2-Site Visit+ Plan
A one hour onsite visit where we assess hot spots and view current resources you have onsite that can be used to cool your space. You will receive a heat assessment map, resource map, and a native plant guide. Additionally, you will get a Cooling Landscape Plan which includes water harvesting calculations, native plant recommendations, recommended water harvesting and shade tree locations.
Option 3- Site Visit + Plan + Workshop*
A one hour onsite visit where we assess hot spots and view current resources you have onsite that can be used to cool your space. You will receive a heat assessment map, resource map, and native plant guide. We will work with your organization to plan and install a Cooling Landscape Project through an educational workshop. The workshop will build hands-on skills and educate volunteers, staff, and community members on rain garden installation and care.
*This option is only available to schools, churches and HOA's
Contact Nicole Parks at nparks@watershedmg.org
