Although fall is bringing changes in weather, it doesn’t change the fact that many areas of our country are experiencing a serious drought. Changing your household’s relationship with stormwater can make a difference. In addition to enjoying the ambience of the rain and watching children jump in puddles, perhaps it is time to start capturing the rain as well?
Purchasing rain barrels for your yard make it easy to capture stormwater. You can then use that water later to water your plants and lawns without using the main water supply (or top up your swimming pool, if you have one). Another advantage is that it reduces the amount of runoff from your property. If you’re worried about how rain barrels in your yard will look, worry no more as there are super stylish options out there.
Another way to embrace the rain is by creating a rain garden in your own yard. According to groundwater.org, “A rain garden is a garden of native shrubs, perennials, and flowers planted in a small depression, which is generally formed on a natural slope. It is designed to temporarily hold and soak in rainwater runoff that flows from roofs, driveways, patios or lawns. Rain gardens are effective in removing up to 90% of nutrients and chemicals and up to 80% of sediments from the rainwater runoff. Compared to a conventional lawn, rain gardens allow for 30% more water to soak into the ground.”
Rain gardens help reduce pollution in local streams, rivers and lakes. They also create new habitats for wildlife and serve as a beautiful garden for your home. To learn the steps to create your own rain garden in your yard, check out Gardener’s Supply Company’s detailed guide to creating a rain garden.
Time to get those rainboots out of the garage and welcome the rain!
Ready to take action?
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