ADD A RAIN GARDEN TO REDUCE STORMWATER RUNOFF
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tormwater is water originating from rainfall or snowmelt. Unlike the sewer system connected to your sink or shower drain, stormwater is carried by curbs, open drainage ways, and storm sewers directly into local streams and rivers without treatment. Pollutants and debris are often picked up along the way. The City is invested in reducing urban runoff, contamination carried to our streams and rivers by stormwater. A portion of landowners’ Stormwater Utility Fee is reserved for projects that promote infiltration, a process which allows water to soak into the soil instead of run into the storm sewer system. Any project that promotes infiltration is eligible to apply for the City’s Stormwater Best Management Practices Cost-Share Program. The program provides partial reimbursement up to 50 percent of project costs for commercial and residential projects. The iGreenCR Action Plan calls for 100 percent of annually allocated Stormwater BMP cost-share dollars to be put to use each year by 2023.
GROWING
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OUR FUTURE
edar Rapids tackles both environmental and social sustainability issues with a unique approach. The City partnered with Trees Forever’s Growing Futures program to provide more opportunities for teen job employment and improve the health of the urban canopy. Through the Growing Futures program, teens are employed to plant trees in neighborhoods that lack tree cover throughout the spring, summer and fall. These trees reduce storm water runoff, clean the air, save energy, and improve mental and physical health. Teens work in teams of seven to ten, and are provided with career readiness opportunities that will help them be future leaders in the community. In addition to planting trees, they learn about tree identification, conflict resolution, first aid, financial literacy, and building a resume. While the program was paused this past spring and summer due to COVID-19, the City is excited about the potential that this partnership holds. “We are excited to participate in this program that not only benefits the community through additional trees planted, but really engages teens who are chosen to lead in their neighborhoods,” said Todd Fagan, City Arborist. The Cedar Rapids Growing Futures program is sponsored by the City of Cedar Rapids, Transamerica, United Fire Group, Alliant Energy, and the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation.
Example projects include rain gardens, bioretention cells, permeable pavers, and soil quality restoration. Cara Matteson, Stormwater Program Manager for the City, said projects can be simple and practical, yet beautiful. “Rain gardens are one attractive way to help reduce the risk of localized flooding and stormwater pollution,” Matteson remarked. Matteson also explained, “The program is a winwin for customers and the City. For half the cost, homeowners can improve their properties and play an active role in improving the City’s water quality and storm sewer system performance.”
Learn more at CityofCR.com/stormwater
We are excited to participate in this program that not only benefits the community through additional trees planted, but really engages teens who are chosen to lead in their neighborhoods.” 13
