Residential Stormwater Retrofit Program (RSRP)
Roofs, parking lots, and other impervious surfaces contribute a significant amount of stormwater runoff to our lakes and streams.
The
Residential Stormwater Retrofit Program (RSRP) takes an
approach that will aid in reducing stormwater flows into ditches and creeks by
retrofitting homes with rain barrels.
Catching rainwater can help reduce or eliminate stormwater runoff from rooftops that can contribute to water quality degradation, pollution, and erosion. Retrofitting homes with rain barrels will help catch stormwater flows and slowly release the water from the collection system back into the soil for infiltration. This is especially beneficial during the rainy months from November to May.
Approximately 1,000 single-family residences are within the Residential Stormwater Retrofit project area (See project area map) and are therefore potentially eligible for a rain barrel retrofit. Funding for the program is available to retrofit approximately 325 homes.
The average roof square footage for these homes is approximately 2,000 square feet. With average rainfall in the watershed totaling approximately 43 inches per year, each of these residences potentially generates about 45,000 gallons of roof rainwater runoff annually.
In addition to the focus on Lake Whatcom, the RSRP also uses rain barrel systems to address city-wide stormwater issues. Some downspouts on homes in older neighborhoods combine stormwater with wastewater in the sewer system. Rain barrels can be used to collect and divert the stormwater away from the sewer, helping reduce peak flows and treatment costs. The City is currently reviewing records to identify and contact eligible homeowners for rain barrel retrofits to reduce strain on the existing sewer system.
Benefit to eligible homeowners:
- FREE rain barrels (2-4 per residence)
- FREE installation
- FREE education
The city’s commitment to the project includes:
- Feasibility evaluation
- Project design
- Rain barrels
- Rain barrel installation
- Project inspection
- Data collection and evaluation
The homeowner's obligation to the project:
- Attend a 90-minute workshop
- Provide proof of property ownership
- Sign a liability waiver
- Provide permission for data collection by city staff
- Perform minimal annual maintenance
Eligibility Requirements:
Lake Whatcom Watershed homeowners should consult the Residential Stormwater Retrofit Program map to determine if their home is located in the project area.
All interested city residents can contact a Residential Stormwater Retrofit Program representative at 360- 778-7700 or email stormline@cob.org.
Please provide complete contact information and home address to be considered
for the program. Participation is on a first come, first serve basis. Some homes
may not be suitable for rain barrels, which will be determined during a site
evaluation by City staff.
