WRITER: Melissa R. Rutter, 575-646-4211, mrrutter@nmsu.edu

New Mexico State University Professor and Extension Turfgrass Specialist Bernd Leinauer and Research Assistant Professors Elena Sevostianova and Matteo Serena will be holding a workshop Saturday, June 2, at the J. Paul Taylor Academy located at 402 W. Court Avenue.

The workshop is being held for the general public to learn more about subsurface drip irrigation and how to install the efficient and water-saving alternative to sprinkler systems.

"Some homeowners and contractors are opposed to this technology because they have never seen it and they are unaware of it. Others don't see a sprinkler spraying water so they don't think the system is working properly. We want to address those concerns at this workshop. Attendees will be able to see how we plan such a system, design it, and put it in the ground and hopefully this will take away the intimidation," Leinauer said.

The hands-on workshop will begin at 8 a.m. and run until noon. Space is limited to 15 people so attendance will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Attendees are asked to bring water and whatever outdoor gear they think is necessary for the day.

A landscape contractor from Water Smart Landscaping, who is familiar with the installation process of such a subsurface irrigation, will be on hand to answer questions from attendees as well.

"Subsurface drip irrigation is currently the most efficient way to irrigate the landscape. It can also be used for flower beds and other areas, such as vegetable gardens. Water distribution is not affected by wind or evaporation, there is no over spray onto the sidewalk. For all those reasons, you can conserve between 30-50 percent of water. That's why this needs to be promoted and used more and this is why we hold the workshop," Leinauer said.

To register for the workshop, call the Extension Plant Sciences Department's main office at 575-646-1715.