Prevent Storm Water Pollution
Rain Gardens

What is a rain garden?

Rain gardens are shallow depressions filled with native plants designed to catch storm water runoff from roof gutters, streets, parking lots or other areas. Rain gardens are being widely implemented across the country to manage storm water, utilizing it as a resource rather than channeling it to storm drains which lead directly to area creeks, rivers and lakes. Managing storm water onsite with rain gardens reduces downstream erosion, flooding, and pollution and recharges the groundwater aquifer.

What plants are used?

Native plants are recommended because their deep roots help water to soak in and they are able to tolerate both short periods of standing water and drought conditions. Native plants also don't need to be fertilized. For information on native plants, visit Grow Native!

Will the rain gardens cause mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes need at least a week of standing water to complete their lifecycle from egg to adult. Poorly maintained birdbaths and gutters are more likely than rain gardens to serve as mosquito breeding grounds.

How do I plant my own rain garden?

Check out the following design and planning guides from James River Basin Partnership:

• Designing a Rain Garden (458 k)
• Budget Garden (1 mb)
• Color Garden (1.1 mb)
• High Functionality Garden (1 mb)

Other Resources

• Wisconsin's "Rain Gardens - A how-to manual for homeowners"