You can do it
Installing your own rain barrel, shade tree, rain garden, or native landscaping may be simpler than you think. The resources below can help you plan for and install a project.
RiverSmart Rebates
The RiverSmart Homes program offers a series of rebates when homeowners install their own rain barrels, shade trees, or rain gardens or remove impervious surfaces and replace them with vegetation/permeable pavers. Any District single-family homeowner is eligible to apply for these rebates, even if they already participated in the RiverSmart Homes program.
Rain Barrels
Installing your own rain barrel can be easily done within an afternoon. These step-by-step guides and videos can help you get started.
Shade Trees
Use the resources below to plan, pick, and plant a tree. No previous experience required!
Rain Gardens
Installing your own rain garden takes a little time and planning, but offers major stormwater benefits. These resources can help you design, plan, and map out your own rain garden.
BayScaping
BayScaping or Chesapeake Bay native landscaping means replacing grass with deeper rooting native plants. Create your own conservation landscaping or pollinator garden using these tools. There are no rebates available for BayScaping.
Landscape Design Tools
There are many resources available to residents interested in installing native plants. Use the following conservation landscape design tools to help you design, plan, and install your new garden.
