Rain Gardens
Rain gardens are landscaped depressions that receive stormwater runoff and allow the runoff to slowly infiltrate to the groundwater table. They can also be used to deal with flooding problems and low areas. Rain garden slow down the flow of water and hold the water for a short period of time and allow it to naturally infiltrate into the ground. The plants use the excess nutrients for growth, sediment is trapped in the garden and biological processes remove pathogens.
Why:
Rain gardens combine natural physical, chemical and biological processes to remove pollutants from storm water. Because rain gardens utilize native species of plants which require less maintenance, less watering, and less fertilizers and pesticides. Low maintenance saves money! They can even solve some yard flooding problems.