City of Peterborough’s Rain Garden Subsidy Program Providing Resources and Funds for Local Garden Installation

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The City of Peterborough’s Rain Garden Subsidy Program, delivered in partnership with GreenUP, provides eligible property owners with educational resources and up to $1,000 toward the cost of installing a rain garden.

photo courtesy of the city of peterborough.

“Currently, only 25 per cent of the City of Peterborough’s stormwater is filtered for pollutants before entering natural waterways, such as the Otonabee River or Jackson Creek,” says Councillor Joy Lachica, chair of the City of Peterborough Environment and Climate Change Portfolio. “Rain gardens are an important part of a greener stormwater management strategy by reducing the amount of polluted runoff entering local waterways, which keeps the watershed healthy and can also reduce the risk of localized urban flooding.”

There are many options for tailoring the size and style of a rain garden, but they all function the same due to their bowl shape. This bowl shape collects water from roofs and other hard surfaces. These gardens use plants and fast-draining soil to absorb and filter water that would otherwise flow straight into storm sewers.

To function properly, rain gardens must be designed and located in a particular way. That’s why this subsidy process provides support for property owners, including design templates, educational resources and on-site consultation from GreenUP staff.

“We know folks can be intimidated by the idea of designing and building their own rain garden, but it’s doable with a bit of support,” says Hayley Goodchild, coordinator with GreenUP’s Neighbourhood and Residential programs. “That’s why GreenUP has partnered with the City to support this subsidy program. We help applicants through the process, step-by-step.”

This year, the maximum subsidy amount is $1,000 per garden, and GreenUP  provides up to two on-site visits to advise on design and construction.

Goodchild says the number of subsidies is limited and are awarded on a first come, first serve basis.

Interested property owners can begin their application process using the link, or by contacting Curtis Mei at 705-742-7777 ext. 1507.

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Upcoming Workshop At Ecology Park Focuses On Ponds And Water Gardens

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Water gardens are a big draw for many types of wildlife and a simple way to add interest to a backyard.

Peterborough Green-Up is offering a free workshop this weekend where attendees can learn the basics of water gardens and ponds from local landscaper Steven Charest.

The workshop is being held on Sunday, July 15th from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Ecology Park, located at 1867 Ashburnham Drive.  

Charest, a pond and water garden expert, will speak about the different types of water features, ponds, and water gardens commonly found in local backyards, the benefits of installing them and how to get started.

This event is free of charge and pre-registration is not required. For more information on the workshop, contact Cathy Dueck at (705) 745-3238 ext. 212.

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