The Eastern Panhandle Conservation District, in partnership with the West Virginia Conservation Agency, West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, Elks Run Watershed Group, and EPA’s Chesapeake Bay Program is offering a “Residential Rain Garden Rebates” program in the Elks Run Watershed to promote the installation of rain gardens in order to reduce the amount of pollution that enters Elks Run and Elk Branch through rain water runoff. Elks Run and Elk Branch are impaired for fecal coliform bacteria and sediment. By capturing and filtering rain water runoff through the installation of rain gardens, levels of sediment, nutrients, and bacteria may be reduced in our local waterways.

We have scheduled a webinar for Wed. Feb. 10^th at 6:30 pm for folks interested in the program.

What is a Rain Garden?

A rain garden is a planted depression that allows rainwater runoff from impervious urban areas, like roofs, driveways, walkways, parking lots, and compacted lawn areas, the opportunity to be absorbed. This reduces rain runoff by allowing stormwater to soak into the ground instead of flowing into storm drains and surface waters which causes ero- sion, water pollution, and flooding. The purpose of a rain garden is to help control stormwater on your property which will help improve water quality in nearby bodies of water.

How Would a Rain Garden Benefit My Property?

  Protect rivers and streams
  Reduce potential of home flooding
  Create habitat for birds & butterflies
  Reduce lawn maintenance
  Provide beautiful landscaping

How Can I Receive Assistance to Install My Own Rain Garden?
The Residential Rain Garden Rebates Program is offering a 50% reimbursement for rain garden installations in the Elks Run watershed, up to $1,200! For more information, please review the program guidelines, which can found at the links below. Questions? Call (304) 263-4376 ext. 3 or email scampbell@wvca.us.

2016 Elks Run Rebate Guidelines and Application