When rain falls on undisturbed areas, it is naturally slowed down and allowed to soak into the soil, while simultaneously being filtered by vegetation and the soil. When rain falls on impervious surfaces such as rooftops and streets, it runs off very quickly, usually being diverted to storm drains and carrying with it polluting substances such as motor oil, trash, pesticides and fertilizers to streams and rivers. Since rivers supply drinking water for millions of people, pollution is no small problem, nor is sediment which affects sensitive wildlife, such as trout.
A rain garden is an easy, effective way to direct rain from your roof and driveway and allow it to soak into the ground. Plants that are adapted to withstand periodic flooding are planted in a shallow depression and then help absorb the water and filter pollutants and return cleaner water back to the water table. A native plant rain garden has the added benefits of adding a wildlife oasis to the backyard with songbirds and butterflies visiting. Since the water drains away in a few days, mosquitoes do not have a chance to breed.
Here is a garden installed at Edgewood College and how it has evolved over the years:
Here is the problem site, where water rushes from a culvert when it rains, and then pools for days.
Bed designed from a culvert to a storm drain. A stone dam is in place to slow the water and keep it in the garden until it can be absorbed.
After initial planting, mulched with hay.
The filled garden soon after the first rain.
After a few seasons' growth. Plants are full grown and capable of absorbing a large volume of water.
Rain gardens are attractive landscaping features that function like a natural moist garden, moist meadow, or light forest ecosystem.
A local rain garden.
Snow Creek installs rain gardens in residential and commercial settings and can help design a garden appropriate to your landscape.
-Angie Bell-Merrifield
www.snowcreekinc.com
www.facebook.com/SnowCreekLLC
Photos courtesy of NCEE and Edgewood College
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