Since 2004, IEUA has reached over 19,000 students with its award winning Garden in Every School® program. The Garden in Every School® program (GIES) educates the school family and community about water-wise usage through a garden landscape, featuring drought tolerant plants and efficient irrigation.

The program works as an assisted grant: first, applicants participate in a mandatory introductory workshop. Then, selected applicants are awarded a grant valued at $4,500 for IEUA to assist in the installation of an up to 2000 square foot garden. The garden is designed, created, and installed through a series of hands on work sessions with teachers, parents, students, and program staff.

Schools must attend the mandatory recruitment and program overview workshop, complete the grant application, possess the commitment of the facilities manager, appoint a lead teacher, parent, and principal, and have the superintendent’s approval. Sites are limited to 2,000 square feet and must have, or have the means to create a dedicated irrigation line in addition to electricity to the proposed site. Schools must commit hands on participation by teachers, parents and students on specified planting and garden work days.

Interested in having a garden at your school?

• Schools interested in applying for the Garden in Every School® program year must attend a mandatory workshop.

Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) and Partnering Agencies: Chino, Chino Hills, Chino Basin Water Conservation District, Cucamonga Valley Water District, Fontana Water Company, Monte Vista Water District, Ontario Municipal Utilities Company, and Upland.

Garden in Every School® is a registered trademark of the National Garden Association.