This annual tour is part of the National Tour of Solar and Sustainable Buildings. See Valley homes and buildings exemplifying the best in living in the desert environment - with passive and active solar and renewable energy technologies; Green buildings techniques, materials, and products; and sustainable building and site practices. This is a free, self-guided tour. For more information, click here!

This is the second of three landscaping workshops brought to you by the City of Tempe. This workshop is focused on selecting plants and maintaining your xeriscape yard. To register, please call Richard Bond at 480-350-2627.

How smart is your irrigation controller? A new generation of products are available that will automatically adjust your irrigation schedule based on actual site and weather conditions. These controllers can prevent irrigation when it rains, apply more water to your landscape during unexpected hot and dry spells, and can help save up to 30% on your landscape watering. Rebates of …

If you’re mystified about landscape watering, you’re not alone. Watering efficiently is the easiest way to reduce your water bill. You’ll discover the importance and details of soil preparation and how to overcome the challenges of our environment. Registration is requested to reserve your seat. Please register by email at eavila@avondale.org, or by phone at 623-333-4422.

Wondering about how to deal with bugs in your yard or home? Are you confused about pest control? Learn to successfully identify the good bugs from the bad as well as eco-friendly ways to control or encourage them. If you like, bring samples for pest identification. Registration is requested to reserve your seat. Please register by email at eavila@avondale.org, or by phone …

GREEN BUILDING LECTURE SERIES Water Resource Conservation versus Efficiency Did you know that in a residential setting, up to 70% of city-supplied potable  water is used for landscape irrigation and 30% of the remainder is used for  flushing toilets? Learn about EPA’s WaterSense labeled plumbing products and  irrigation technologies that can reduce your water consumption by 20-30%. Hear  about hydrozoning …

SCOTTSDALE GREEN BUILDING LECTURE SERIES Urban Gardens and Edible Landscapes Join urban gardener and environmental artist, Joan Baron, as she shares the benefit and how-to's of growing your own healthy food, herbs, edible flowers and fruit trees in our desert environment. Learn about our planting and harvesting seasons. Find out about the wide range of community gardens and how school …

Learn the ins and outs of selecting, planting and maintaining structurally beautiful trees and shrubs through hands on demonstrations. Avoid the hazards associated with improper pruning practices. Registration is requested to reserve your seat. Please register by email at eavila@avondale.org, or by phone at 623-333-4422.

Spring is an ideal time to get a jump start on planning a water- and  energy-efficient landscape. This class provides the  basics on landscape design for our unique climate. Register at 623.930.3760 or bpatrick@glendaleaz.com.

Arizona author, Brad Lancaster, shares strategies and stories on how to harvest rainwater in your landscape and community. Brad will be available to sign his new book, Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond, Volume 1, 2nd edition. The free program is offered by the city of Glendale Conservation and Sustainable Living Office in partnership with the Watershed Management Group.