LIRPC

Garden Rewards Program

Long Island Garden Rewards Program Logo

The Problem with Nitrogen

Nitrogen is the leading cause of water quality deterioration on Long Island. Excess nitrogen can cause toxic algal blooms that lead to low oxygen conditions, fish kills, degraded wetlands, and marine habitats. Nitrogen also contaminates the groundwater which is the sole source of Long Island’s drinking water.

Many efforts to mitigate and reduce nitrogen pollution are underway on Long Island. Be a part of the solution and participate in the Long Island Garden Rewards Program today!

Learn more about the impacts of nitrogen on the waters of Long Island.

Long Island Nitrogen Action Plan

The Long Island Nitrogen Action Plan (LINAP) is a multiyear initiative to reduce the amount of nitrogen entering Long Island’s groundwater and surface water from wastewater (sewer and septic systems), stormwater runoff and fertilizers. LINAP is led by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the Long Island Regional Planning Council (LIRPC) along with Suffolk and Nassau counties, with input from multiple partners and stakeholders.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Sign up for the LINAP newsletter here.

 

What is this program?

This program will provide financial rewards for homeowners on Long Island who add green alternatives to their properties that benefit the environment.

This is a great opportunity to make a positive impact for your local watershed. While improving your property, you are also reducing pollution from entering local waterbodies. The program allows homeowners to be reimbursed up to $500 for installing green infrastructure on their properties, such as rain barrels, rain gardens, or native plantings. Funds are limited and will be granted on a first come first serve basis, so don’t miss out!

Why should I participate?

You can help make a difference!

Rain barrels, rain gardens, and native plant gardens all work by reducing the amount of stormwater flowing across your yard which will reduce the amount of nitrogen going to the water. Both additions to your yard can also help you conserve water.

Learn more about the impacts of nitrogen on the waters of Long Island here.

How to Sign Up

Enter your home address address or simply click your location on the map for eligibility. Then click the link to apply.

If you are eligible for the LI Garden Reward program, receipts must show purchases after May, 1st, 2023.  For more details and to apply click here.

If you live in the Peconic Estuary watershed, you are eligible for the Peconic Estuary Partnership’s Homeowners Reward Program. For more details and to apply click here

If you reside in the Town of North Hempstead, you are eligible for the Town’s Native Plant Residential Rebate Program. For more details and to apply click here.