Wild for the Big Wood 

Got a backyard along the Big Wood River? Then you’ve got a front-row seat to one of the most dynamic landscapes in Idaho. But here’s the thing—what happens in your yard doesn’t stay in your yard. Lawns, hardscaping, and non-native plants mess with natural floodplains speed up erosion, and waste a ton of water. 

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That’s where we come in. Project Big Wood offers funding to help homeowners swap traditional landscaping for river-friendly, restoration-based practices. It’s not just about going wild for the Big Wood—it’s about reinforcing natural floodplains, stabilizing riverbanks, and bringing local codes into better alignment with what the river actually needs. While we are focusing on riverfront properties we are also extending the opportunity to those further from the river and not directly in a riparian zone. These properties would benefit from reducing water dependency and pesticide use and replanting native fauna. 

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Why Native Landscaping?

Native plants aren’t just pretty—they’re tough. They know how to handle Idaho’s dry summers, cold winters, and unpredictable floods. They hold soil in place, improve water quality, and create habitat for local wildlife. Basically, they do all the heavy lifting that a healthy river system needs. By replacing thirsty turf and decorative exotics with native species, you’re not just making your yard look good—you’re helping keep the Big Wood intact for the long haul.

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How the Program Works

Eligibility: This program is open to homeowners along designated river sections. Fill out an application to see if your property qualifies. *While we are focusing on riverfront properties we are also extending the opportunity to those further from the river and not directly in a riparian zone. These properties would benefit from reducing water dependency and pesticide use and replanting native fauna.*

• Funding: Qualifying homeowners can get up to 50% of project costs covered, capped at $5,000.

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What to Expect

1. Planning: We’ll meet with you to talk about your goals, available funding, and the best strategy for your property.

2. Development: We team up with expert landscapers to design a plan that’s good for you and great for the river.

3. Implementation: When it’s go-time, your yard transforms, and we document the process to help educate the community.

4. Monitoring: We check in to make sure everything’s thriving, plus provide updates and conservation tips.

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More Than a Backyard Makeover

This isn’t just a landscaping grant—it’s a step toward reconnecting the Big Wood River to its floodplain. Every time a property moves away from traditional turf, we reinforce natural buffers, slow erosion, and support the river’s ability to do what it’s meant to do: move, breathe, and sustain life. In many cases, these projects help meet or exceed local riparian setback codes, meaning homeowners stay ahead of future regulations while actively improving river health.

Bottom line? This is about resilience—keeping the Big Wood strong in the face of increasing droughts, floods, and development pressures.

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Ready to Apply?

If you want your property to work with the Big Wood instead of against it, now’s your chance. Apply today, or reach out with any questions. We’ll walk you through it, step by step.