How We Got a Grant to Improve Our Yard (and You Might Qualify Too!)

Did you know you might be eligible for a landscaping grant just by living near a storm drain or the Potomac River?

We recently transformed part of our yard into a native garden with the help of the Virginia Conservation Assistance Program (VCAP)—and we were reimbursed for a big part of the project! Here’s what we learned, what it looked like for us, and how you can check if your yard qualifies too.

Our Story: From Muddy Mess to Rain Garden Bliss 🌿

We used to have a soggy, muddy patch on the side of our house that caused moisture intrusion—stressful to deal with, and honestly, an eyesore. It was just grass, mud, and puddles. Yuck.

After two companies told us we needed to install an expensive pipe to redirect the water, we called our neighbor and friend Brian from Del Ray Landscapes. He had a completely different vision: a beautiful rain garden filled with native plantings that would absorb and filter the water naturally. More attractive, more affordable, and way better for the environment.

We moved quickly through the VCAP application with Brian’s guidance, and now that muddy corner has been transformed into a gorgeous native garden buzzing with butterflies and bumblebees. Best of all—no more soggy yard, and no more water intrusion.

What is VCAP?

The Virginia Conservation Assistance Program is a state-funded grant program designed to reduce stormwater runoff and protect Virginia’s waterways—including the Potomac River.

If water runs off your roof or lawn and into a storm drain or stream, VCAP helps you manage it better—right on your own property.

How Much Can You Get?

Homeowners can receive up to $7,000 (or more) in reimbursements for eligible projects. The exact amount depends on the size and scope of your project, but even small improvements can qualify.

Do You Qualify?

You don’t have to live directly on the water. Many homes in Fort Hunt, Waynewood, Stratford Landing, and surrounding areas are eligible—especially if your property is within 100 feet of a storm drain inlet or near a local waterway.

What Kind of Projects Are Covered?

VCAP supports a variety of sustainable landscaping solutions, including:

• 🌱 Rain gardens

• 🌸 Native plant landscaping

• 🚶‍♂️ Permeable paving

• 🌳 Riparian buffer planting

• 🌿 Green roofs

For us, a native rain garden was the perfect solution—but there are many options depending on your property’s needs.

The Process (Simplified)

1. Inspection – NVSWCD (Northern Virginia Soil & Water Conservation District) visits your property.

2. Design – A custom plan tailored to your yard and VCAP’s goals.

3. Install – You or a contractor bring it to life. (We highly recommend Brian Schmauder of Del Ray Landscapes—also a Fort Hunt neighbor!)

4. Maintain – Basic upkeep and reporting as required.

💡 Pro Tip: You pay for the project upfront, then get reimbursed after completion. For us, reimbursement came faster than expected.

Why It Matters

These projects make a difference not just for your home, but for the whole community:

🌧️ Reduced flooding in yards and basements
🏡 Increased property value and curb appeal
💧 Cleaner waterways
🐝 More pollinator habitat
🌎 A more resilient, sustainable neighborhood

Ready to Explore It?

If you’re curious whether your yard qualifies, start with the NVSWCD website or reach out to a local expert like Brian at Del Ray Landscapes. We’re so glad we did this—and even happier we could share the experience with neighbors.

Your soggy yard (or simple patch of grass) could turn into something beautiful, practical, and eco-friendly—and you might just get a grant to help make it happen.