In the face of water restrictions, Durango businesses are finding unexpected benefits. While the city's Stage 1 water restrictions, implemented on April 10, aim to curb drought impacts, some businesses are thriving. The owner of Blooming Landscape and Design, Brooke Safford, reports increased business as customers seek to remove lawns to conserve water. This shift in customer behavior highlights a growing awareness of water conservation, which the business has long promoted through drought-tolerant plants and water-saving techniques. Cathy Metz, a member of the Durango Botanic Gardens board, notes that the gardens have also prepared for such restrictions by focusing on drought-resistant plants and reducing grass areas. The gardens' irrigation schedule has adapted to the restrictions, and Metz remains optimistic about the plants' resilience. Meanwhile, Hillcrest Golf Club has adjusted its watering routines, but the grass is showing signs of stress. The restaurant industry is also adapting, with Gazpacho Restaurant refraining from offering complimentary water to customers, a practice that has been well-received and has even helped with staffing challenges. These examples demonstrate how businesses are not just surviving but also finding innovative ways to thrive in a water-conscious environment, offering a glimmer of hope in a challenging situation.
