Improve Water Quality & Save Money

Published on March 25, 2024

Spring is here, and along with it comes the usual rain showers. All of that rain can sometimes result in flooded yards and large amounts of erosion.

Luckily, there is something you can do about this! There are many easy and natural solutions that, when added to your yard, help with some of your stormwater issues and provide a natural beauty to your property. Here are some examples:

• Use Rain Barrels – by attaching a rain barrel to your downspout, you reduce the amount of stormwater runoff on your lawn, but you can also use the collected rainwater to water your garden.
• Use Native Plants – A rain garden full of native plants is not only beautiful to look at, but it is also extremely helpful for holding and filtering stormwater runoff.
• Use Permeable Pavers – Installing permeable pavers is another great way to provide stormwater runoff with an easy way to soak into the ground.

If any of these examples sound like a welcome addition to your home or business, apply for the Unified Government’s Stormwater Treatment Facility Cost-Share Program.

The Cost-Share Program helps cover the cost of materials and/or labor to install approved stormwater treatment facilities:

• Rain gardens, native plant swales/buffers, cisterns, and permeable pavement (driveways/patios)
  • 50% match up to $1,000
• Rain barrels (maximum of 2 per household)
  • 50% match up to $75 each
• Native trees (maximum of 2 per household)
  • 50% match up to $75 each

Funding is limited, and applications are on a first-come, first-served basis. Applicants must reside in Kansas City, Kansas. Stormwater control projects that are required to meet Chapter 8 Article XV of the Unified Government Municipal Code are not eligible under the Cost-Share Program.

For more detailed information or to download a copy of the application, visit the Stormwater Quality Programs webpage. Dial 3-1-1 with questions.