Oahu Residents – Learn about free rainwater capture solutions!
The City and County of Honolulu, in collaboration with Mālama Maunalua, have launched a new Rainwater Capture Incentive Program aimed at providing Oʻahu residents with free rainwater capture solutions.
Program Overview
This initiative offers residents the opportunity to have rain barrels, rain gardens, or native trees installed on their properties at no cost. The primary goals of the program are to:
- Protect Oʻahu’s Groundwater: By capturing rainwater, residents can help replenish the island’s precious groundwater resources.
- Reduce Flooding: Implementing rainwater capture solutions can mitigate flooding in local communities.
- Mitigate Stormwater Pollution: These installations help prevent pollutants from entering streams and the ocean.
- Potential Water Bill Savings: Utilizing captured rainwater for irrigation and other purposes can lead to savings on water bills.
Eligibility and Application
The program is open to all Oʻahu residents, including homeowners and renters, whether residing in single-family homes or apartments. Priority may be given to applicants from underserved communities, such as economically disadvantaged, multi-generational, and kūpuna-led households.
To apply, residents can visit the official program website at rainwaterhawaii.com, where they will find the application form, letter of agreement, and a list of frequently asked questions. Please note that funds are limited, so interested individuals are encouraged to apply promptly.
Additional Support
For residents in the Windward and Ala Wai regions, partner organizations are offering free rainwater assessments using the “Follow the Drop” app. This tool assists in finding suitable rainwater capture solutions for individual properties. The app is available for download on the Apple Store and Google Play. Link to apps below:
Contact Information
For further questions and inquiries, residents can email [email protected].
By participating in this program, Oʻahu residents can play a significant role in environmental conservation efforts, contributing to the protection of the island’s natural resources and the well-being of their communities.