A rain garden in Burnsville, Minnesota.

Photo by Kurt Leuthold © Barr Engineering

This program features an engaging presentation by landscape ecologist Gregg Thompson from the Association of Metropolitan Soil and Water Conservation Districts. Mr. Thompson is experienced in the areas of landscape ecology, horticulture and native landscape design. He is involved in native plant community restoration, native re-vegetation, stormwater treatment practices using native vegetation and bio-stabilization on shorelands and streambanks.

The natural beauty and practical benefit of a rain garden make it an increasingly popular choice for home landscapers who want to do their part to improve water quality, and many residents seek resources on how to add these lovely features to their yards, schools and businesses. This program will describe what a rainwater garden is, how to build one, and why they can be important for our lakes, rivers and wetlands.

The workshop will take a “how to” approach, giving participants information about where a rainwater garden should be placed, soil preparation, plant selection and other nuances of rainwater garden construction. Printed materials about rain gardens will also be provided for workshop participants.

Many people do not realize that rain carries pollutants from our yards, streets, sidewalks and parking lots to the nearest storm drain, which leads directly to local lakes, streams and ultimately the Mississippi River. Rain gardens are designed with a center depression to help rainwater seep into the soil. This infiltration helps recharge groundwater supply and protects water quality by reducing polluted runoff in the urban landscape. Rain gardens can also feature hardy native plant species that thrive without fertilizers and pesticides.

To sign up, contact volunteer coordinator sue rich through our contact form.

Featured on KSTP News

KSTP’s Eyewitness News featured Gregg Thompson giving a short introduction to raingardens in connection with this workshop. Check out the clip at KSTP’s web site. Read more…