Initiative
The Illinois Rain Garden Initiative began in 2005 with a $10,000 grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that was awarded to the Lt. Governor’s Office. The grant awards 20 - $500 grants to schools and community organizations across the state of Illinois. They help foster the growth of native perennial flowers and grasses, and create habitat for wildlife such as native birds and butterflies. The Illinois Rain Garden Initiative is designed to empower students and communities to confront local flooding concerns, restore native Illinois prairie habitats, and learn about green solutions to storm water management.
These grants have allowed teachers and students to gain hands-on experience in landscaping, including ways the environment changes and adapts to its surroundings. Rain gardens are also a way that the schools and universities can share with the community. It is a great way to learn about native plants in Illinois and, the grant teaches teachers, students and community groups how to plant and maintain a rain garden.