Project Narrative: Rainscape Garden Installation at 5406 Bancroft Ave, St. Louis, Missouri

Project Overview:

I am excited to propose the installation of a rainscape garden at my newly purchased home located at 5406 Bancroft Ave, St. Louis, Missouri. This project will transform a portion of my lawn area into a beautiful and functional landscape that captures, stores, and filters stormwater runoff from the property. This will not only benefit the environment but also create a low-maintenance rain, view, and soundscape for myself, my father, and local wildlife.

Project Justification:

As a new homeowner with a large lawn, I'm committed to creating a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing landscape. I know rainwater runoff is a significant concern in St. Louis, and by installing a rainscape garden, I can contribute to cleaner waterways and improved water quality for future generations. This aligns perfectly with my childhood memories of canoeing on Missouri's beautiful rivers, and I'm thrilled to give back to this fantastic landscape.

Project Description:

The proposed rainscape garden will be in my backyard at 5406 Bancroft Ave. It will be strategically designed to capture and filter runoff from the roof and surrounding areas. The garden will feature a diverse selection of native plants to the St. Louis region, including trees, shrubs, and flowers. These plants will be chosen for their ability to thrive in wet conditions, filter pollutants, and provide food and shelter for birds and bugs. Additionally, the garden will incorporate walking paths, mulch beds, and other features that will slow down and infiltrate stormwater runoff. 

My design considers that I am a frequent traveler and, therefore, prioritize low-maintenance landscaping solutions. The presence of native plants will attract birds and insects, providing my homebound father with constant entertainment and enjoyment. And finally, this project is a personal way to give back to the Missouri landscape I cherish.

Project Benefits:

This project will have a positive impact on the environment, including:

Environmental Benefits:

• Improved water quality: By capturing and filtering stormwater runoff, the rainscape garden will help reduce pollution in local waterways, including the River des Peres and the Mississippi River. This will improve the health of aquatic life and provide cleaner water for drinking and recreation.

• Reduced flooding: By allowing more water to soak into the ground, the rainscape garden will help to reduce the risk of urban flooding in the St. Louis area. This will protect property and infrastructure from damage.

• Improved soil, plant roots open up compacted soils and attract a soil ecosystem of decomposers and beneficial insects.

Community Benefits:

• Increased biodiversity: The native plants in the rainscape garden will attract birds, butterflies, and other pollinators, creating a more diverse ecosystem. This will provide my homebound father, who enjoys observing nature, with a constant source of entertainment and enjoyment.

• Enhanced aesthetics: The rainscape garden will be a beautiful and inviting addition to the neighborhood, demonstrating the benefits of sustainable landscaping practices in urban environments.

• Increased property value: Rainscape gardens can increase the value of a property by making it more attractive and sustainable.

• The installation of this exceptional rainscape garden not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of my backyard but also provides a unique opportunity to introduce my guests to the beauty and sustainability of rainscaping.

Conclusion:

The installation of this rainscape contributes to the health of our environment and our community. This project aligns with my commitment to sustainability, my desire to create a beautiful and low-maintenance space for myself and my father, and my lifelong connection to the Missouri landscape. I believe this project will positively impact me for years, and I am grateful for your consideration of my grant request.

Additional Information:

• I am a frequent traveler and, therefore, prioritize low-maintenance landscaping solutions.

• The presence of native plants will attract birds and insects, providing my homebound father with constant entertainment and enjoyment.

• This project is a personal way for me to give back to the Missouri landscape that I cherish.