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When Life Gives You Rain, Make a Raingarden By Betsy Rickards, CZM Raingardens—known in some circles as bioretention cells—appear on the surface to be a shallow depression containing plants, grasses, and flowers. What distinguishes them from other gardens is their ability to retain water, specifically rainwater, that would otherwise flow over asphalt, pick up pollutants, and ultimately end up in rivers, streams, and the ocean. And not only do these pretty little retention cells lessen contamination in our waterways; rain gardens also recharge the groundwater supply, which ultimately benefits drinking water supplies. How do they do this? Well, compared to a traditional lawn, rain gardens soak as much as 30 percent more rain. And by holding the water in their tight little grip, the plants and soils capture the water and sediments and absorb nutrients and pollutants from sources such as fertilizers, pet wastes, and oils. Subsequently, the water that makes its way to local water bodies is significantly cleaner. As an added bonus, this extra retention helps to moderate flooding, which reduces erosion of the banks and shoreline. Rain gardens can work virtually everywhere. If you have some outdoor space, you can help by planting one to collect runoff from your roof or, if circumstances allow, to capture water that drains from your driveway or lawn. Rain gardens are very easy to establish on new residential construction. On existing lots, the most difficult work might be in removing the existing grass and plants. Most gardens are created by digging a shallow area in the lawn. (If rain doesn't soak readily into the ground, layering a combination of sand, gravel, soil, and mulch into the garden plot will quickly solve the problem). Next, select hardy native plants (for more on native plants, see "Growing Native" on page 9) with deep root systems and place them in the garden. For an additional benefit, you may choose plants that are attractive to birds, bees, and butterflies. The end result is a beautiful, low maintenance garden that is beneficial to you, the environment, and your community. Give it a try! For a user friendly guide on designing and building a rain garden on a residential site, visit: http://clean-water.uwex.edu/pubs/pdf/home.rgmanual.pdf. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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