Rain barrels are a low-cost way to reduce runoff, reduce household water usage, and save you money while improving the quality of streams and neighborhoods. One inch of rain on a 1000 sq. ft. roof yields 620 gallons of water. Use this water for your lawn and garden.
There are natural/safe alternatives that can replace commonly used products. Link to household alternatives
Treatment of lawns and gardens can contaminate storm water through pesticides, fertilizers, and soil runoff.
- Plant and maintain healthy plants because they are less susceptible to insects and disease, requiring minimal pesticides.
- Develop landscape plans that utilize the natural conditions of their property. Test soil every 3 to 4 years. Choose plants that are local. Regional plants use less pesticides and are water efficient.
- Mulch helps to retain water, reduce weeds, and improve soil. If fertilizer/pesticides are necessary, use small amounts of slow-release or organic ones.
Rain gardens are shallow depressions that divert rain water from going directly into storm drains or ditches which eventually lead to streams or creeks. They take runoff from a roof, driveway, parking lot, or other hard surfaces where it can pick up pollutants such as fertilizers and pet droppings along the way and allow it to soak in the ground instead of rushing into a storm sewer.
- Check local laws. Some areas do not allow downspouts to be diverted. Also be aware of the location of the public utilities.
- The rain garden should be at least 10 feet from your home and not in an area where rain already collects. Place it in a low spot away from trees.
- Garden design will depend on three factors: depth of garden, amount of runoff being diverted, and type of soil already in your garden.
- A good soil mix for rain gardens is 50 to 60 percent sand, 20 to 30 percent topsoil, and 20 to 30 percent compost. It is recommended that you put down shredded hardwood mulch so the soil remains moist and able to soak up rain.
- To direct water to your rain garden, disconnect a downspout and reroute it to the garden. You can either extend the downspout across your property or create a rock-lined channel. You can also run PVC pipe underground to the garden. Putting in landscape rocks or fabric at the outlet of a pipe can help slow down the rainfall and prevent erosion.
Rain Gardens and Household Ways to Improve Water Quality in Your Community Links: