Clovis Unified School District looks to conserve water

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Valley schools haven't been immune to the impact of the drought. Many will be taking steps to reduce their water use.

Clovis Unified schools will see a change to a more drought tolerant landscape. District spokesperson Kelly Avants said end of the year outdoor fun won't include squirt guns or any water to cool off.

Avants said, "Like no longer having those water play days at the end of school. Fundraisers where we used to have kids out in the parking lot washing cards to raise money that as of this month has ended."

Playing fields in Clovis Unified will remain green whether they're used for football, softball or any other sport. The fields might not be watered as often but they'll stay healthy. Other grass on campus though may turn brown because the district tends to two different types of turf.

Avants explained, "Ornamental and what we're calling functional turfs. Those play fields where we have to maintain. It has impact standards so that the safety of our students is protected."

The district has begun work on a new elementary school at Temperance and Clinton. Once it is done in August of 2016 it will feature much less ornamental green grass and plants which can survive on minimal watering.