HOW THINGS WORK
tormwater SSuperpowers S
tormwater — or rainwater and snowmelt that drains off hard surfaces like roofs and driveways — runs directly into streams and rivers instead of soaking into the ground. Unlike sewage, stormwater is not treated for pollutants. Stormwater Best Management Practices can capture water where it lands, allowing pollutants and sediment to settle or filter out, and decreasing stormwater runoff. This process is called infiltration, and it helps reduce the quantity and improve the quality of stormwater runoff.
Cost-Share Program The City’s Residential Stormwater Cost-Share Program reimburses 50 percent of qualifying expenses (up to $2,000) toward stormwater infiltration projects, including the cost of materials and/or contractor labor. Projects are reimbursed after work is completed and inspected. For more information on the CostShare Program and how to apply, visit CityofCR.com/Stormwater or call 319-286-5604. 20
Rain Gardens Native vegetation in landscaping soaks up runoff, absorbing nutrients and providing habitat for butterflies and bees. A rain garden is a depression in the ground, filled with plants and grasses (wildflowers and native vegetation preferred), that collects water runoff from hard surfaces. Rain gardens allow stormwater to filter into the ground rather than running into storm drains, and they provide pollinator habitat.
Bioswales Bioswales provide alternatives to storm sewers by utilizing natural draining points in land to absorb water and carry runoff. A bioswale looks like a soil bed or ditch, featuring native flowers and grasses or other plants, and can be installed in low-lying areas where water stands. Underground, there’s a permeable soil bed and perforated subdrain tile, which transport stormwater runoff in a non-erosive manner. Bioswales improve water quality by infiltrating the first flush of stormwater runoff.
Permeable Pavers Pavement is the largest generator of stormwater runoff. Using permeable pavers — bricks or tiles — instead of a large slab of concrete or asphalt allows stormwater to seep through and soak into the soil beneath, instead of flowing into a storm sewer and eventually into creeks and rivers. Permeable pavers also reduce the need for salt in the winter because snow melt more readily drains from the hardscape, reducing the potential for re-freezing.
Soil Quality Restoration Tillage, aeration, and compost improve the health of soil for lawns. Healthy soil absorbs a greater volume of runoff, keeping that runoff out of streams and rivers. Additionally, yards with poor soil quality require more time, money, water, and sometimes chemicals to stay green and lush.
Other Ways to Help Residents can help reduce stormwater runoff and improve its quality in other ways: • Properly dispose of paint, auto grease, and car washing liquids by taking them to the Cedar Rapids/Linn County Solid Waste Agency (SWA) free of charge. • Use lawn pesticides and fertilizers responsibly or not at all. You can also dispose of these products free of charge at SWA. • Scoop the poop! Pet waste left on the ground gets picked up by stormwater runoff and runs into our local streams and rivers, and it also presents health risks to humans and pets. Place the waste in your GARBY garbage cart. • Volunteer with our Stormwater Program. Learn more at CityofCR.com/Stormwater.