YOUNGSTOWN — The Mahoning Soil & Water Conservation District is committed to making a positive impact in Mahoning County communities through its comprehensive stormwater management and backyard conservation program.

Part of this goal is supporting residents in implementing approved stormwater management and backyard conservation solutions on their properties through the MSWCD Backyard Conservation Grant Program, which offers reimbursement of up to $500 for the installation of Best Management Practices or approved conservation projects.

Best Management Practices are approaches to water management that protect the natural water cycle from pollution and help achieve healthy water quality. They are effective, economical, and enhance public safety and the quality of life for residents and wildlife. BMPs can include shrinking lawns by planting native trees and plants, restoring wetlands by creating rain gardens, installing pervious pavers, and/or installing rain barrels.

The Mahoning SWCD Backyard Conservation Grant Program targets primarily residential homeowners, but other properties are eligible to apply as well, including homeowner associations, schools, places of worship, parks or other locally owned spaces, private or commercial spaces, and nonprofits. State or federally owned properties are not eligible.

BMP may not be installed on new or active construction sites. One year after the developed site has been completed, stabilized, and an occupancy permit has been issued, an applicant is eligible to submit an application. Conservation practices are not intended to meet any local, state, or federal regulatory requirements.

All practices must be maintained for their entire contracted lifespan.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to reach out to Mahoning SWCD to discuss their interest and program eligibility. If applicants wish to proceed with their application, they must complete a Site Assessment Checklist Form and submit it to zachary.felger@mahoningcountyoh.gov.

SWCD Staff will review the Site Assessment Checklist Form. If necessary, a site visit will be conducted to determine the best-fit practice and assess if the project meets the minimum ranking score.

Prospective applicants are required to complete the Application and develop a design plan detailing construction, materials, operation, maintenance and a total itemized cost. The district and the applicant should collaborate to ensure all required forms are completed and compiled for the application.

Completed applications will undergo review by SWCD staff and approval by the local SWCD Board. Once approved, installation can begin. Applicants have until Dec. 1, to complete their project post-approval. It is advisable to schedule a preconstruction meeting with SWCD staff to discuss design specifications.

For more information, contact Zachary Felger at 330-740-7995 or by email at zachary.felger@mahoningcountyoh.gov.