ST. GEORGE – The Washington County Water Conservancy District is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals committing acts of vandalism and theft at the Southern Utah Water Conservation Garden located at 1851 Dixie Drive in Tonaquint Park.

Last Thursday, metal from the garden’s trellis was stolen resulting in hundreds of dollars in repair and replacement costs as well as extensive vegetation destruction.

According to Barbara Hjelle, associate general manager and legal counsel for WCWCD, this is one of many acts of vandalism that has cost the district thousands of dollars since the garden’s opening in 2001.

“Most of the incidents are minor, such as a stolen flower pot, chair or bird feeder, but it all adds up,” she said.  “We hope our community residents that have embraced the beauty and educational offerings of this garden will enjoy it for years to come, without selfish acts of vandalism hindering its existence.”

WCWCD has filed a report with the St. George Police Department for this and all other incidences of vandalism and theft at the garden.  Individuals with any information are encouraged to call 435-627-4301.

About the garden:

The Southern Utah Water Conservation Garden is a two-acre water-wise demonstration garden.  Its purpose is to showcase water-efficient landscapes while educating community members on water conservation, growing/planting/pruning tips, best irrigation practices, native and climate-appropriate vegetation types and more.

Gardening workshops, hosted by WCWCD, are held frequently throughout the year and cover a wide range of topics.  Visit the water district’s website to see the workshop schedule.

The garden is funded and maintained by WCWCD in cooperation with the City of St. George.  Grants from the Bureau of Reclamation helped establish the project.  Constanza & Associates provided the original design and Utah State University Cooperative Extension is an educational partner.

Submitted by: The Washington County Water Conservancy District

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