What’s Up With All Those New Rain Gardens?
You may have noticed several beautiful rain gardens that have been popping up in our neighborhood. They are a part of a program to disconnect roof water drains to alleviate the city sewer in specific areas. It’s been an environmental win-win solution for neighbors and the city!
Rain gardens are a beautiful way to let roof water drain into the earth on your property and not straight into the city sewer system. Anyone can disconnect home gutters and redirect them into a rain garden. Not only is it environmentally friendly and beautiful, homeowners may be eligible for a discount on the stormwater portion of their water bill from the City called Clean River Rewards. If you’re already disconnected or plan to, you can register here for the Clean River Rewards discount.
So, if you are a lucky resident who gets a letter from the City about getting a rain garden installed, check it out. It’s the real deal!
Don’t be sad if you haven’t received a letter. You can still make your own rain garden. Here are a few resources to help your project be a success.
East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District, Rain Gardens 101 (recording)
EMSWCD offers a yard sign for your completed rain garden too!
Folks interested in technical assistance from City staff can reach out to the Drainage Inquiry hotline via phone 503-823-5858 or via email at drainage.inquiries@portlandoregon.gov.