If you live in a neighborhood where grass lawns are the default, but there isn’t enough water to go around, you’re likely familiar with the measures cities put into place to address the problem. Strict watering schedules, pushes for different landscaping options, suggestions for rain collection… the list goes on and on. But one city is taking a different approach. If you’re a resident of Nampa, Idaho, there’s a rebate program in town. The city is offering $5000 to swap out your lawn for a low-maintenance alternative. While this program may not be available in your city, it’s a program that could serve as a successful model to conserve water down the line. Here’s what to know.
What Is the Waterwise Rebate Program?
Nampa’s offer is part of their Waterwise Rebate Program. Qualifying residents can earn up to $5,000 in rebates, depending on which measures they’re willing to take. According to the city, the rebate program offers “up to $2,500 for irrigation upgrades” as well as “$3 per square foot of replaced turf with the total not to exceed $2,500.”
For those of you doing the math; that’s a maximum of 833 square feet. You’re not obligated to stop there, but further square footage won’t yield more money.
How Can I Qualify for This Rebate?
If you’re a resident of Nampa, Idaho and are willing to take on the landscaping project, there are some guidelines in place. In order for your new yard to qualify for the rebate, you need to replace a minimum of 500 square feet of your current grass lawn with “waterwise plants.”
The city defines waterwise landscapes as ones that “are drought-resistant, colorful, and often require less intensive upkeep than their turf counterparts.
You’ll also need to update your irrigation system. You can choose between drip irrigation or “install an EPA WaterSense labeled controller.” The city explains that these options “decrease water usage and increase efficiency.
Once you’ve finished the project, you’ll need to have your yard pass an inspection. Once you pass, congratulations! You’ll have successfully managed to swap your lawn for a suitable for alternative for $5000.
How Long Will This Rebate Be Available?
The Waterwise Rebate Program has proven popular. At the moment, the city says that “all currently available rebate funds have been allocated.” However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ve missed your chance. The city also says that you can be added to a waiting list so that you can take advantage of the program if more funds become available. So if you’re interested, reach out and put yourself on that waiting list.
Source
- Waterwise Rebate Program, City of Nampa.
- 2025 Nampa in Bloom, City of Nampa.
RELATED
- The 5 States Where Winter Driving Is Most Dangerous
- Which States Have the Highest and Lowest Property Taxes?
- The Biggest Home in Each State That Will Stun You
The post Want $5,000? This City Will Pay You to Replace Your Thirsty Lawn appeared first on Family Handyman.
Article source here: Want $5,000? This City Will Pay You to Replace Your Thirsty Lawn
No comments:
Post a Comment