A patch of lawn near a storm drain presented an ideal space for a rain garden. The curb from the parking lot was removed, the drain bypassed, and a depression was created for water to flow into. Native plants have been attracting bees and other pollinators ever since!
The completed rain garden offers both environmental and economic benefits including:
- Reduction of urban pollutants – especially heavy metals and pesticides, from entering Amazon Creek
- Reduction of erosion – stream bed and bank erosion contribute to sedimentation of the stream
- Improved instream water quality – benefits fish, amphibians, and macro-invertebrates
- Wildlife habitat integration – native plantings into the urban framework benefit local song birds, pollinators, and wildlife
- Distinctive signage – highlights the sight as an example of Trout Friendly Landscaping, educating passersby, visitors, and employees