Nature-Based Solutions for Stormwater

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Green Stormwater Infrastructure Practices

Eligible Practices

This section outlines the eligible practices for the Residential Assistance Program, with additional practices considered on a case-by-case basis.

Eligible practices fall into two categories:

  • Practices installed along a stream and within the stream buffer (regulated area)

  • Practices installed in upland areas

Regulated areas are defined as those governed by local, state, or federal agencies. The image below highlights these areas: the red zone represents the stream corridor, while the yellow zone indicates the regulated buffer.

Stream Corridor and Adjacent Areas

Regulated Areas

Streambank Stabilization:  Uses vegetation to protect stream banks, preventing erosion, land loss, and downstream sediment pollution while enhancing fish and wildlife habitats.

Riparian Buffer Enhancement:  Establishes perennial vegetation near watercourses to reduce erosion, improve water quality, and provide wildlife habitat.

Regenerative Stormwater Conveyance (RSC):  Employs pools, riffles, and cascades to treat stormwater, stabilize gullies, and promote infiltration. Can also be used in regulated areas.

Upland Areas

Critical Area Planting/Erosion Control:  Planting perennial vegetation on highly erodible land to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.

Disconnected Impervious Surface:  Redirecting runoff from roofs and paved surfaces to vegetated pervious areas for absorption and treatment.

Vegetated Swales:  Graded channels with vegetation designed to convey runoff while reducing erosion and promoting infiltration.

Rain Garden:  A shallow depression capturing runoff to allow infiltration and pollutant removal.

Cisterns:  Rainwater harvesting systems that store runoff, promote infiltration, and conserve water.

Ineligible Practices

Practices Generally Ineligible for Cost-Sharing

  • Creek overbanking and flood mitigation projects (e.g., acquisition, building elevation, floodproofing).

  • Crawlspace sealing and interior moisture issues (e.g., mold, mildew).

  • Minor yard flooding, moisture ponding, grading/drainage improvements (single or multiple lots), and groundwater-related issues.

  • Channelization of runoff or piping a natural stream; removal of debris from streams.

  • Stream restoration requiring state and federal permits.

  • Maintenance or rehabilitation of Stormwater Control Measures permitted under the Land Use Ordinance.

Note: Residents interested in ineligible practices may explore other options, such as referrals to agencies or assistance applying for alternative funding sources.