WELCOME TO HIP!
YOU Qualify FOR
PROPERTY
IMPROVEMENTS
Congratulations, your property qualifies for HIP! Properties along Lake Whatcom’s shoreline hold the greatest opportunity for meaningful improvement to the lake’s health. HIP can help you offset any impacts from your lot, leading to a cleaner and healthier shoreline for your use and enjoyment. These improvements can enhance your existing landscape and improve drainage—without changing how you use and enjoy your property.
Questions about HIP? Check out the ten minute video below about Lake Whatcom water quality, HIP project options, and an overview of the HIP process.
To get started, click the button below the video to set up free, no obligation on-site consultation with HIP staff to learn more about the projects that apply to your property. The details of all of these project types, as well as additional resources for you to review are linked below for your convenience. HIP is here to help!
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.
YOUR PERSONALIZED
PROPERTY RESOURCES
Shoreline Landscaping
We help you design native landscaping that thrives in shoreline locations.
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.
Clean Beach Filters
Clean Beaches filter polluted runoff by forcing it to flow through specially-mixed sand that doubles as a beach area for your use and enjoyment.
Upland Filters
If the soil on your site is poor, you can protect water quality by filtering runoff through special sand and rock mixes. Underneath, pipes collect the clean water and carry it safely downstream.
Infiltration Trenches
Beneath a winding gravel footpath or landscape feature, a property with well-draining soil can create natural filter for runoff that’s hidden from view and improves site drainage.
Lake Whatcom Rain Garden
Whether hidden within landscaping, or placed front-and-center for increased curb appeal, rain gardens create an interesting look that attracts wildlife and improves site drainage.
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.