I recently completed the Master Rain Gardener class help bu the Washtenaw County Watershed department and install my first rain garden. Basically- it is a depression in the ground to detain rainwater until it can soak into the soil.

Left unabated rainwater in urban settings will go directly into the storm sewer, into our rivers, and eventually into the Great Lakes. This causes a high volume of extra water from impervious surfaces increasing erosion, flooding, and pollution.

A rain garden is a detention area that gives a chance for the rainwater to soak into the ground recharging the aquifer. It also creates a habitat for beneficial insects and butterflies making a beautiful focal point in your yard.

As I install more rain gardens I will post pictures and write about the process- it should be a lot of fun!