RAIN GARDENS

What is a Rain Garden.......

Rain Gardens are small depressions that collect rainwater runoff from roof downspouts, sump pump discharges, driveways and/or lawns.  Within the rain garden the water is absorbed or infiltrated into the soil and/or filtered through the vegetation.  Rain gardens are typically planted with a variety of native wildflowers and grasses suited to periodically wet conditions.

Location, location, location! Choose the right location for your rain garden, at least 10 feet away from your HOME or BUSINESS's foundation, where it will capture rainwater from a slope before it goes into the alley, street or driveway. Test drainage by filling an 8-inch diameter hole with water. The most promising sites will drain in 24 hours. Dig the garden 3 to 8 inches deep, with a flat bottom and the sides sloping gently up to the lawn.

Plant with native shrubs, grasses, and perennials. Place moisture-loving plants in the center and those that favor dry conditions along the edges. Once established, most rain gardens are low maintenance. Even if you don’t have space for a full rain garden, simply redirecting your gutter downspouts toward an existing garden can help a lot. You can find more rain garden.

Benefits of Rain Gardens:  Basically, rain gardens are an inexpensive, simple way to implement and environmentally sound solution to urban stormwater runoff. 

The primary purpose of a rain garden is to reduce the amount of water being conveyed to the local storm water system.  Even if water is not absorbed into the ground, the vegetation at least filters the water, reducing the pollutants going into the storm water system and ultimately downstream lakes, streams and rivers.  Less water in the system also can reduce downstream flooding.  Other benefits include:

o        Absorbing and filtering storm water runoff

o        Removing common place pollutants from storm water runoff

o        Creating wildlife habitat and attracting butterflies and birds

o        After the first few years of establishing they are low maintenance

o        Rain gardens can be aesthetically pleasing landscaping features.

• Filter runoff pollution                    

• Recharge local groundwater

• Conserve water

• Improve water quality

• Protect rivers and streams

• Reduce mosquito breeding

• Reduce potential of home flooding

• Create habitat for birds & butterflies

• Survive drought seasons

• Enhance sidewalk appeal

• Increase beneficial insects that eliminate pest insects

• Enhance sidewalk appeal