News Releases

News Release

For Immediate Release

Contact: Brandon Moore
bmoore@tampabaywater.org
(727) 791-2304 | (727) 470-0702

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. (April 17, 2025) — Tampa Bay Water, UF/IFAS Extension and Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ presented the 2025 Tampa Bay Community Water Wise  Award for Hillsborough County to a local homeowner who exemplifies sustainable, water-wise landscaping. Out of 40 applicants throughout the Tampa Bay region, José Cosme-Rivera’s water-thrifty landscape stood out for his commitment to conservation and beautiful, environmentally friendly yard practices.

Cosme-Rivera’s yard showcases the core principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ through a thoughtful and sustainable design. His landscape thrives primarily on rainfall and features drought-tolerant plants and trees grouped by similar water and maintenance needs. Self-mulching areas under trees, pervious materials for walkways, and the strategic use of swales and downspouts to direct rainwater into planted areas all contribute to reduced stormwater runoff and water waste.  The result is a low-maintenance, resource-efficient landscape that is both functional and beautifully designed.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE PHOTOS

Cosme-Rivera was presented with a custom mosaic stepping stone to reward their efforts for a sustainable and water-conscious approach. 

“Winning landscapes conserve water,  create wildlife habitats, enhance property values, and bring communities together. We’re proud to recognize these individuals who are leading by example,” said Amelia Brown, Tampa Bay Water’s demand management program manager. 

The awards, presented annually, showcase landscapes that embody the nine principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™, including efficient irrigation, the use of drought-tolerant plants, and reducing stormwater runoff.

To learn more about the Tampa Bay Community Water Wise Awards and how to enter this year’s contest, visit https://awards.tampabaywaterwise.org.

About Tampa Bay Water
Tampa Bay Water is the largest wholesale water supplier in Florida, providing high-quality drinking water to its members, who in turn, supply water to more than 2.6 million residents of the Tampa Bay area. Tampa Bay Water member governments include Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties and the cities of New Port Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa. To learn more, visit tampabaywater.org.