RainSmart Yards
RainSmart Yards awards homeowners for conscientious, creek-friendly practices in and around their homes.
In partnership with the City of Chattanooga and Hamilton County, the RainSmart Yards initiative was founded in 2018. This award program recognizes creek-friendly yards that capture and retain stormwater during rain events, as well as create habitat for native plants and pollinators.
Interested in a RainSmart Yards information session or presentation for your club or organization? Contact isabelle@mywaterways.org to schedule!
In order to receive an award, you must have your yard visited in person by a WaterWays staff member or volunteer.
After completing the online survey, you will be prompted to schedule an appointment.
Eligibility and Incentives:
City of Chattanooga
- City code section 31.356.1 states that program participants are eligible for a 25%, 50%, or 75% annual stormwater fee discount if awarded a bronze, silver, or gold status, respectively, after a evaluation of the property.
- Access to free workshops and resources.
- View the links below for additional benefits and program requirements.
City of Red Bank
- Program participants are eligible for a 25%, 50% annual stormwater utility fee discount if awarded a bronze or silver status, respectively, after a evaluation of the property.
- Access to free workshops and resources.
Hamilton County
- Join the RainSmart Yards community, get recognized with a free RainSmart Yards sign, and an honorary award of Bronze, Silver, or Gold when you participate!
- Access to free workshops and resources.
Get Started On Addressing Stormwater Issues in Your Yard!
During a rain or snow event, the water that falls to the earth is called stormwater. This water soaks into the soil, is carried into waterways, or creates puddles that eventually evaporate, all contributing to the natural water cycle. However, the addition of human infrastructure like roads, buildings, lawns, and parking lots disrupts this cycle and leads to increased pollution and flooding.
When excess water makes its way across impervious surfaces like paved roads, it picks up chemicals and other pollutants which will most likely make their way to rivers and streams. Most stormwater is untreated, going straight from a streetside drain to the nearest waterway.
Understanding this direct connection can make a big difference in the health of our local creeks and streams. Individuals can take actions on their property to mitigate stormwater and limit their overall water usage, lessening their impact on the ecosystem. Keep reading to learn how YOU can make a difference in your community and in your watershed!
Check out the, RainSmart Stewardship Guide, to learn the basics on starting, caring for, and planning your RainSmart Yard today!
RainSmart is a homeowner’s incentive program that reimburses City of Chattanooga residents for installing green infrastructure projects on their property.
