LGROW's Rainscaping Program has been providing resources for managing stormwater and improving habitat since 2018. We also provide free site assessments and customized recommendations for residents and businesses throughout the Lower Grand River Watershed.

In 2024, LGROW worked in partnership with the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC) on an EGLE non-point source pollution grant. LGROW coordinated with Grand Rapids area residents to plant 8 raingardens and over 1400 native plants throughout the Lower Grand River Watershed. These gardens are built to infiltrate stormwater from roads and reduce sediment and pollution that would otherwise be carried down the storm drain. We moved 16,000 lbs of river rock, 12,000 lbs of soil, and 3,000 lbs of mulch! We are planning to plant 7 more raingardens in 2025. We also visited 35 residents, schools, and small businesses in 2024 and provided recommendations and resources to help improve stormwater management and wildlife habitat.

We are so grateful for community and partner support on this project and look forward to improving water quality in the Grand River by planting more raingardens and visiting more homes, businesses, and schools in 2025!