ASU Researchers will be looking at using composted “green waste” materials to replace traditional fertilizer for maintaining grass in public parks in Phoenix. An initial study indicates the compost could boost the water-retaining capacity of soils. If it works, the change could help conserve water, reduce parks maintenance costs and become an operational model program for other cities. Enrique Vivoni, a professor in the Fulton Schools and the School of Earth and Space Exploration, is leading the research team. Vivoni is a hydrologist whose work focuses on interactions between climate, ecosystems and landscapes.