Rockville residents and nonprofits can receive up to $5,000 through the city’s RainScapes Rebates program for projects that beautify yards and help the environment.
Eligible projects include:
Conservation Landscapes: Replace lawn with native plant gardens.
Tree Planting: Add native trees for seasonal color, shade and habitat.
Rain Gardens: Improve your drainage.
Green Roofs: Reduce rooftop runoff while adding habitat.
Rain Barrels and Cisterns: Collect rainwater for reuse in gardens.
Permeable Pavers: Enhance the character of driveways or patios while helping rain soak into the ground.
June is National Pollinator Month and outdoor spaces, including small yards, patios and balconies, can provide valuable habitat for pollinators.
Here are three simple ways to make a difference:
Plant a container garden with native flowers that bloom across the seasons, such as creeping phlox, milkweed, black-eyed Susans, New England aster and wild bergamot.
Add a shallow water source by placing a dish with stones for birds and pollinators to land on while drinking. Empty and clean it weekly to prevent mosquitoes.
Include a shrub or small tree that provides food for pollinators, like serviceberry, American plum, witch hazel or buttonbush.
Rockville is a certified Community Wildlife Habitat through the National Wildlife Federation. Residents can take part and earn recognition for helping create a connected network of wildlife-friendly spaces. Learn more at rockvillemd.gov/ backyardhabitat.
