Green Stormwater Mini Grants

The Green Stormwater Mini Grants program, administered by Pierce Conservation District (PCD), supports small-scale green infrastructure projects in Pierce County, Washington. These grants aim to reduce polluted stormwater runoff entering local waterbodies such as creeks, rivers, and Puget Sound. Grants of up to $4,000 are available to individuals, businesses, and community groups located within the Commencement Bay, Chambers Creek, and Lower Puyallup River Watersheds. Stormwater runoff—generated when rain flows over impervious surfaces such as rooftops, roads, and lawns—carries pollutants directly into the environment. The program helps address this challenge by funding installations that capture, filter, and absorb runoff through green stormwater infrastructure. Eligible project types include the installation of rain gardens, large rainwater collection tanks, the depaving of hard surfaces, and the replacement of lawn with urban habitat plantings. Projects must occur within the defined watershed boundaries, which include neighborhoods such as Tacoma, University Place, Lakewood, Puyallup, South Hill, Spanaway, Parkland, Elk Plain, and parts of Graham, as confirmed by the provided service area map. Participation in the program begins with a required site visit from PCD staff to assess feasibility and refine project concepts. Following the site visit, applicants must submit an online application that includes a project scope, estimated budget, photos of the site, and any relevant supporting materials. The grant window for 2025 is open from August 1 through November 15. Selected applicants will receive a Notice of Award and Financial Assistance Contract. Once approved, PCD will assist in project design, including plant selection and installation planning. Awardees may execute their projects with assistance from PCD, a contractor, or on a do-it-yourself basis. Grantees are encouraged to maintain their installations to ensure continued environmental benefit. PCD offers ongoing support for maintenance and troubleshooting. These grants contribute to community resilience, improve local water quality, and protect endangered wildlife by mitigating the impact of stormwater pollution.

Schedule the site visit early to ensure you have time to develop your design and submit your application. PCD staff will help refine your proposal during the visit.