The 2026 Residential Rain Garden program from the City of Brandon is now open for applications. According to a release from the City, they’re partnering with Central Assiniboine Watershed District and seeking up to 25 single dwelling residential properties to install a rain garden in their yard in the summer of 2026.
In their release, the City explains that a rain garden is a green landscape feature that captures stormwater runoff from lawns, rooftops, and driveways. They feature a shallow depression with deep, loose soil to absorb and filter stormwater naturally.
“While these gardens collect water, they do not typically serve as breeding habitats for mosquitoes,” reads the release. “Rain gardens require minimal maintenance and can be integrated into various landscapes.”
Other benefits include reducing the amount of water entering local storm drains, reducing flooding and mitigating drainage issues, and attracting birds, butterflies, and pollinating insects.
Applicants must be a resident of Brandon, and the rain garden must be installed on a property you own within city limits. It must also be in a low-lying location on your property and be installed at least three (3) metres away from the foundation of your house. Applicants must be able to redirect a downspout from their roof to the rain garden area, and the proposed rain garden location must be clear of any trees and/or underground services.
