Congratulations!
YOU QualifY FOR
PROPERTY IMPROVEMENTS
Properties with large impervious areas such as roofs, driveways, and patios have a special role to play in protecting water quality. Rain water flows off these surfaces, carrying pollutants to nearby ditches, drains, and water bodies. Installing a water quality improvement project can reduce these impacts, improving your property while also protecting Lake Whatcom.
To get started, learn more about the projects you qualify for by downloading the resources below then follow the instructions to sign up for HIP.
Questions about HIP? Watch a ten minute video about Lake Whatcom water quality, HIP project options, and an overview of the HIP process.
YOUR PERSONALIZED
PROPERTY RESOURCES
Native Landscaping
Using "right plant, right place" principles, we help you create beautiful, picturesque landscapes that can be low-maintenance and capture phosphorus in runoff to help protect water quality.
POST Filter
Even with limited space, you can protect water quality by filtering runoff through a small but highly effective filter. The filter is specifically designed to remove pollutants that harm Lake Whatcom.
HIP-Certified Professionals
Your property qualifies for a reimbursement for professional services. If you choose to work with HIP-Certified Professionals, all of your expenses could be reimbursable.
Curious about native landscaping with HIP?
In this video HIP staff take a tour of a native plant garden to showcase a variety of projects available for reimbursement through HIP.
CLICK ON THE LINK TO DOWNLOAD ALL PDF RESOURCES
Next Step:
Sign up for HIP
Sign up today and HIP staff will reach out to share information about the program and how to schedule a site visit. The first site visit not only functions to inform you about the details of the HIP but – more importantly – it helps us understand your unique vision of the future use and appearance of your property. Starting with and building on your feedback, we will recommend various types of HIP-eligible projects that are expected to work well on your specific lot. Projects we suggest will be hand-selected to ensure that they will be feasible to construct, maximize your available budget, and enhance your property’s distinct character and use–all based on the preferences and vision you share with HIP staff during the site visit.
CUSTOM
HIP LANDSCAPE DESIGNS
Sunny Shoreline Landscape Plan
If your site slopes gently toward the water, use this layout to maximize your fun in the sun.
Shoreline Connection Landscape Plan
Keeping you connected to the uses along your shoreline, this layout adds privacy from boaters and neighbors.
Shoreline Buffer Landscape Plan
Tired of the geese making a mess along your shoreline? This layout creates a barrier that doesn't detract from your water view.
Shady Creekside Landscape Plan
Along streams, use this layout to beautify your property while reducing erosion and flooding.
Part Sun Privacy Landscape Plan
Creating a border of native landscaping using this layout grows a beautiful and natural barrier while keeping your views intact.
Backyard Sanctuary Landscape Plan
Use this layout to turn an open lawn area into a private place where you can relax, entertain guests, and attract birds and butterflies.
Sunny Hillside Landscape Plan
Mowing lawns on steep slopes can be a big headache. This layout helps you envision ways to plant your hillside while maintaining that spectacular view.
Deep Shade Landscape Plan
Some native plants thrive in shady areas, where weeds and moss would otherwise grow. Use this layout if you live under tall trees or for the shady side of your lot.