We are no longer accepting applications. The program is currently full.
Eastern Nebraska has experienced moderate-severe drought conditions during five of the past ten years. In the spring and summer of 2023, exceptional drought (D4) conditions forced the City of Lincoln to implement the first phase of its Water Management Plan to sustain essential services. The first phase of the plan focuses on outdoor water use. Nearly two-thirds of the water Lincoln uses during the summer is for watering grass and other outdoor purposes.
Through special grant funding, the City of Lincoln offered a 75% discount on waterwise lawn and landscape projects within a target area. This target area consists of underserved neighborhoods within the City.
Funding for this program is provided by the United States Bureau of Reclamation, the Lower Platte South Natural Resources District and the City of Lincoln.
Waterwise lawns and landscapes are beautiful, as well as functional, landscaping projects designed to conserve water and reduce outdoor water use. By converting a water intensive lawn to a waterwise lawn or landscape, you can save as much as nine gallons of water per square foot during the summer months. Waterwise lawns and landscapes also help improve water quality by allowing more water to soak into the ground during rain events, instead of running off. Some projects also provide habitat for wildlife and pollinators.
* Application must be approved and an agreement must be signed before work on the project can begin.
Spring and Fall 2026
October 16, 2026
Overall project must be at least 1,000 square feet.
A waterwise lawn is a drought-tolerant alternative to a traditional lawn. A waterwise lawn performs best when combined with soil quality restoration. Adding organic matter to the compacted clay soils typically found in Lincoln helps more rain soak in where it lands, instead of running off, and keeps your lawn healthy with less maintenance.
Minimum project size: 1,000 square feet
A waterwise landscape is a lawn alternative consisting of a matrix of native and drought-tolerant plants, including perennials and grasses. Waterwise landscapes can also provide habitat for wildlife and pollinators.
Minimum project size: 100 square feet
Questions regarding the program may be directed to: