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Rain Gardens

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What are they:

“A rain garden is a shallow depressed area in the ground that absorbs rain from streets, allowing rain to soak directly into the soil.”  Made up of shrubs and perennials native to the area, rain gardens are an effective GSI in reduce the amount of runoff from potentially flooding local streets.

Advantages/Benefits:

  • Filter out pollutants from entering sewage system
  • Reduce flooding
  • Reduce water usage
  • Enhanced sidewalk appeal
  • Allow up to 30% more water to soak into ground
Disadvantages/Challenges:

  • Having a soil texture and structure that would maximize water infiltration
  • Inlet structures, if not correctly placed, can limit rain garden functionality
  • Standard soil depth and large enough surface area
  • Proper maintenance to prevent severe erosion from stopping rain garden functionality.
  • Location of rain garden
  • Durable plants
How they work:


  1. During prolonged periods of rainfall, water will travel from hard surfaces, such as rooftops, streets or driveways.
  2. The soil will momentarily absorb the water, while also filtering out any pollutants.
  3. Clean water will drain from soil into the sewer.



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