Turning landscapes into learning labs to study water, plants, and place-based sustainability
Purpose
To demonstrate and study nature-based stormwater infrastructure in a real-world educational setting, using Colorado-specific watershed design and native landscaping to explore water movement, plant performance, and sustainable landscape strategies.
Description
The Hydro Backyard at CSU Spur serves as a living laboratory where scientists and visitors alike explore the connections between water, plants, and sustainable urban design. Designed to represent Colorado’s four major watersheds—South Platte, Arkansas, Rio Grande, and Colorado River—the space features educational exhibits, native and xeric landscaping, and bioswales that demonstrate nature-based stormwater management. Built through collaboration between engineers and landscape architects, the bioswales mimic oversized rain gardens, helping prevent erosion, support plant health, and absorb stormwater more efficiently. The space also supports ongoing Water TAP research on plant performance, irrigation strategies, and green infrastructure design.
Impact
By blending education, landscape design, and applied research, the Hydro Backyard provides a hands-on model of how urban outdoor spaces can support sustainability, engage the public, and inform future green infrastructure solutions tailored to Colorado’s climate.
Partners
This collaborative demonstration space reflects cross-disciplinary planning and environmental stewardship:
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