The District provides incentives for practices that protect and improve the quality of water resources located in the District’s jurisdictional area. Landowners, citizen groups and local units of government can request financial and technical assistance through the cost share programs for implementation of conservation practices. Compensation for practices implemented depends on whether the category (residential, commercial, or agricultural) and type of practice being applied for.
This Flower & Fern rain garden was installed using the Raingarden-in-a-Box program in Summer 2013.
Rain gardens, shoreline restorations, rain barrels and lake irrigation pumps are all popular options for local residents to decrease the impact of their property on water quality.
Choose which practice fits best for your property, fill out an application before you start, and staff will let you know if your project is eligible for our program. You must have received an approved application before you purchase materials or install your project.
Visit our Learn More page for more information on these practices.
Not sure if you live in the District? Visit this interactive map and enter your address to find out what watershed you live in!
The District offers a cost-share docket in partnership with the Scott County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD). Farmers can receive technical & design assistance as well as financial incentive payments for the installation of practices which help improve and/or protect water quality. Currently the District pays a yearly stipend for filter strips on the basis of phosphorus removal efficiency; all other practices on the docket are compensated on a construction-cost basis. Contact the Scott SWCD for more information.
In addition, the District’s Farmer-Led Council is promoting a cost-share opportunity to farmers for cover crops. This cost-share opportunity is designed to promote soil health and reduce erosion. Limited funds are available. For more information visit the FLC Cost Share page.
On commercial, industrial, or institutional properties, more extensive Best Management Practices might be appropriate. Pervious asphalt, concrete, or pavers (which allow water to soak in, unlike traditional impervious surfaces) and infiltration trenches or other devices that go above and beyond regulatory requirements are good examples. The District may reimburse the installers of these practices up to an amount that is determined by both their effectiveness at removing phosphorus, and the number of people who see the practice (educational benefit).
Please contact the District if you are interested in installing a project.