The city of Cedar Rapids and AmeriCorps are teaming to provide free design and installation of a rain garden in 2018. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

Cedar Rapids residents can apply for free design and installation of a rain garden, a  landscaping feature that captures rain water runoff on your property and can help improve water quality downstream.

Rain gardens not only provide a functional value, but can add beauty to your yard, as well.

AmeriCorps is partnering with the city of Cedar Rapids for the Free Rain Garden Design/Installation Giveaway in 2018.

Applications are due March 27, 2018, and can be requested from Stormwater Coordinator Cara Matteson, at c.matteson@cedar-rapids.org.

Design and installation of rain gardens will be completed by AmeriCorps at no cost to the resident. Applicants will be contacted by May if they have been selected to win a rain garden design/installation, with installation planned for May-August 2018.

Rain garden material costs (plants, edgers) will be at the expense of the resident, but these expenses are eligible for the City’s Stormwater Cost-Share Program.

Information on the cost-share program can be found on the City’s website.

Linn County Master Gardeners and other experts offer advice on a multitude of gardening topics during the Winter Gardening Fair, coming up on March 3, 2018. Find information on the fair here.