FIND A SERVICE

HOW DO I…

Learn More

Rain Gardens

Font Size: + -

Feedback Print

Rain garden

A rain garden is a depression designed to infiltrate captured storm water from roofs, patios, and driveways, directing storm water runoff away from foundations. These gardens are usually decorative with native plants and grasses. Using native vegetation is preferred since they use less fertilizer and are more disease resistant and tolerant of native climate, soils, and water conditions. To assist with the design, location, clarify soil quality, and native plant assortment, please review the “Iowa Rain Garden Design & Installation Guide, 3^rd Edition”.

Helpful isolated sections of the Iowa Rain Garden Design & Installation Guide’s:

Cost Share

Reimbursement Program & Application

To encourage residents to implement practices that will help alleviate pressure on the city’s storm sewer infrastructure and improve water quality. The City of Iowa City offers a maximum reimbursement of half the practice’s total cost up to a maximum of $3,000. Reimbursement is offered on a first come, first served basis. To apply for this cost-share, please complete and submit the Storm Water Cost-Share Application, accompany with the IOWA RAIN GARDEN Design & Installation Guide, 3rd Edition Checklist.

Please email your application package to the Stormwater Specialist at carp@iowa-city.org, or mail it to:

Attn: Stormwater Specialist
410 E. Washington St
Iowa City, IA 52440

Maintenance Practices