Xeriscaping
Interested in mowing less grass or no grass at all and using minimal to no water? Just have a look at some of these simple and cost effective solutions to convert your yard from high water usage to little to no water usage! 
Xeriscaping Breifly Explained
Xeriscaping and xerogardening refers to landscaping and gardening in ways that reduce or eliminate the need for supplemental water from irrigation. It is promoted in regions that do not have easily accessible, plentiful, or reliable supplies of fresh water, and is gaining acceptance in other areas as climate patterns shift.
Xeriscape Benefits
Saves Water. For most of North America, over 50% of residential water used is applied to landscape and lawns. Xeriscape can reduce landscape water use by 50 - 75%.
Less Maintenance. Aside from occasional pruning and weeding, maintenance is minimal. Watering requirements are low, and can be met with simple irrigation systems.
No Fertilizers or Pesticides. Using plants native to your area will eliminate the need for chemical supplements. Sufficient nutrients are provided by healthy organic soil.
Improves Property Value. A good Xeriscape can raise property values which more than offset the cost of 
installation. Protect your landscaping investment by drought-proofing it.
Pollution Free. Fossil fuel consumption from gas mowers is minimized or eliminated with minimal turf areas. Small turf areas can be maintained with a reel mower.
Provides Wildlife Habitat. Use of native plants, shrubs and trees offer a familiar and varied habitat for local wildlife.
A few more examples:
The river rock used can also be substituted for a variety of landscape rocks as well, I prefer it because it really gives the desert (Arizona) feel or dry river bed look.
With the addition of a few simple drought tolerant and colorful plants the rocks pop to life!
See more examples in my landscaping photo gallery..here!