Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner Jim Nash’s pilot program, RainSmart Rebates, has completed its first year with impressive results. Designed for homeowners in the George W. Kuhn Drain Drainage District, the program demonstrated high levels of community participation and effective stormwater management through residential green stormwater infrastructure. This program encourages homeowners to take an active role in managing their property’s stormwater runoff by installing rain gardens, planting trees, and using rain barrels, with financial support provided through rebates and grants.
“I’m thrilled by the success we’ve seen in our first year,” said Nash. “By empowering residents to act, we’re not only managing stormwater runoff but also protecting water quality and enhancing our communities for years to come. This program is a win-win for our municipalities and the environment.”
First-year achievements include:
• $60,000 rebates were issued, with an average rebate of $500 per participant.
• $16,000 awarded in grants.
• 159 rain barrels were installed.
• 98 native trees were planted.
• 49 rain gardens were installed.
• Projects installed will help collectively manage an estimated 605,000 gallons of stormwater annually.
• Received a 2024 Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties.
Building on its first-year achievements, RainSmart Rebates will begin accepting applications for its second year on March 1, 2025. The program will continue collaborating with municipal stakeholders to engage and benefit more residents.
“We’re excited to take everything we’ve learned in the first year and make the program even better in 2025,” said Nash. “RainSmart Rebates demonstrates how small, local actions can have a big impact.”
The George W. Kuhn Drain Drainage District serves all or part of the following municipalities: Berkley, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Clawson, Ferndale, Hazel Park, Huntington Woods, Madison Heights, Oak Park, Pleasant Ridge, Royal Oak, Royal Oak Township, Southfield and Troy.
Residents interested in participating in the 2025 program can learn more, verify eligibility and apply at oakgov.com/rainsmart.
“I’m thrilled by the success we’ve seen in our first year,” said Nash. “By empowering residents to act, we’re not only managing stormwater runoff but also protecting water quality and enhancing our communities for years to come. This program is a win-win for our municipalities and the environment.”
First-year achievements include:
• $60,000 rebates were issued, with an average rebate of $500 per participant.
• $16,000 awarded in grants.
• 159 rain barrels were installed.
• 98 native trees were planted.
• 49 rain gardens were installed.
• Projects installed will help collectively manage an estimated 605,000 gallons of stormwater annually.
• Received a 2024 Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties.
Building on its first-year achievements, RainSmart Rebates will begin accepting applications for its second year on March 1, 2025. The program will continue collaborating with municipal stakeholders to engage and benefit more residents.
“We’re excited to take everything we’ve learned in the first year and make the program even better in 2025,” said Nash. “RainSmart Rebates demonstrates how small, local actions can have a big impact.”
The George W. Kuhn Drain Drainage District serves all or part of the following municipalities: Berkley, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Clawson, Ferndale, Hazel Park, Huntington Woods, Madison Heights, Oak Park, Pleasant Ridge, Royal Oak, Royal Oak Township, Southfield and Troy.
Residents interested in participating in the 2025 program can learn more, verify eligibility and apply at oakgov.com/rainsmart.
