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RiverSmart programs help to reduce stormwater runoff that harms the District’s waterways and the Chesapeake Bay. RiverSmart programs provide financial incentives to help District property owners install green infrastructure such as rain barrels, green roofs, rain gardens, permeable pavement, shade trees, and more. These practices allow rainwater to stay on site and soak into the ground, where natural processes help remove pollutants.
The RiverSmart Homes and RiverSmart Communities programs offer financial and technical assistance to properties in Washington, DC. Participants in the program can voluntarily receive installations that reduce stormwater runoff. These programs are managed and funded by the District’s Department of Energy and Environment.
When rain falls onto areas that don’t allow water to soak into the ground it runs off into the street (for example; driveways, parking lots, roofs, and even some lawns) and is known as “stormwater runoff.” Stormwater runoff collects pollution (for example; fertilizer, pet waste, sediment, litter) as it flows across these hard surface areas. Stormwater runoff adds pollution to our waterways and causes damage to local rivers and stream banks. Not only does this create a negative effect on our ecosystems but it also creates unsafe waterways for fishing or recreation.
To learn more about RiverSmart practices coordinated by the Alliance, you may jump to the appropriate page below:
*If you are interested in having trees installed through the RiverSmart program, please contact Casey Trees.
