On May 30, the San Antonio Botanical Garden broke ground on its newest attraction, WaterSaver Community, which SABG officials said will engage the community and inspire people to make environmentally sound choices, such as protecting water resources in South Texas. SABG officials said WaterSaver Community will have a grand opening in the fall.

According to a news release, WaterSaver Community will educate visitors about water conservation and sustainability practices by featuring an updated model neighborhood that demonstrates diverse examples of residential landscapes while conserving water.

Garden officials said the project was a collaborative effort that included the San Antonio River Authority, the San Antonio Water System and Bank of America.

SABG CEO Sabina Carr said all of the project partners sought to create an immersive and educational experience that encourages visitors to positively affect the local environment.

“Water conservation is intricately tied to the garden's mission of enriching lives through plants and nature,” Carr said in a statement. “Our journey towards sustainable practices begins within our communities. With WaterSaver Community, the garden aims to inspire community members to become advocates for water conservation.”



The release states WaterSaver Community will provide homeowners a chance to envision how environmentally sustainable and aesthetically pleasing landscapes can succeed.

SARA General Manager Derek Boese said his agency is proud to sponsor WaterSaver Community as it aligns perfectly with its mission of inspiring stewardship of the San Antonio River basin and its tributaries.

“This unique attraction will empower our community members to embrace water-saving practices and foster a sustainable future for future generations,” Boese said in a statement.

Ventura Perez, Bank of America San Antonio president, said financial institution officials are happy to support an initiative that could help to inspire local residents with home design ideas, teach sustainable and eco-friendly home practices, and create a positive space for onlookers to enjoy.


“Local projects like this are changing the way San Antonians integrate water conservation into our everyday lives,” Perez said in a statement.