Rain Garden Program to Help Watersheds

Tuesday, 31 July 2007

Groups or individuals who reside in any community served by the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) can now apply for reduced-cost plants to help increase the number of rain gardens in the area. Rain gardens help protect the health of our rivers and Lake Michigan by capturing storm water and draining it into the ground instead of allowing it to flow into sewers or become polluted runoff. Rain gardens are nature’s way of helping to correct man-made problems like sewer overflows and polluted runoff.  We’re spending a ton of money to reduce sewer overflows. If we really want to improve our rivers and lakes, we need to do something to reduce the amount of storm water pollution that flows into waterways every time it rains. Above and beyond the water quality benefits, rain gardens add beauty to neighborhoods and they attract birds, butterflies, and wildlife.  More than 50 species of native plants that have deep roots to help the rain garden absorb much more water than your typical lawn are available. Interested parties need to fill out and submit a short application form by January 14th, 2008. The form can be found on MMSD’s web site at www.mmsd.com/raingardens.  Applications will also be mailed upon request. Individuals who need a hard copy may call 414-225-2070.  A list of available plants and delivery information can be found on the web site. Who Can Apply? Residents, groups and units of government within Milwaukee County and the cities of Brookfield, Mequon, Muskego, and New Berlin and the villages of Butler, Elm Grove, Germantown, Menomonee Falls, Thiensville and Caledonia. Plant Prices For every 2.5 inch plant purchased at $3.60, eligible applicants will receive a second plant for free, about a 50% discount compared to retail prices. MMSD is actively seeking businesses that are willing to 1) display a poster and/or 2) distribute handouts for the LMRGI at the place of business.  Samples of both are attached for your information.  These items are also appropriate for workroom poster boards, places of worship, neighborhood coffee shops, schools, clubs, etc. Businesses could also be of assistance by sending an email to all their employees with information about the initiative. MMSD also has colorful booklets and maps that provide information about the pollutants that impair the Kinnickinnic and Menomonee River Watersheds that are available to businesses that would like to give them away.  A sample can be mailed to you; simply call 414-225-2070. Businesses have become increasingly interested in demonstrating their green profile to their community and customers.  The water resources of the Greater Milwaukee Area are one of our most precious assets; improving their quality benefits all who reside here now and in the future.

 

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