RAIN GARDENS
Why they are valuable when it hasn’t rained
Why build a rain garden when it hasn’t rained? Actually, during a dry period is when rain gardens are most valuable. Heavy downpours create a surplus of rain water that runs off causing erosion and silted waterways. Rain gardens trap the water and disperse it slowly. They can solve driveway washouts, road flooding, and roof gutter water dispersal. Plus, they help retain water for vegetative growth during dry spells. This is a creative way to conserve water quality and save money with the added enjoyment of attracting hummingbirds, butterflies and other native wildlife. Join Elaine Grehl, M.S. Public Horticulture, on Monday, September 13, 2010, 9:30-11:30 AM, at the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park, as she explores the mechanics, science, and design of these clever solutions to stormwater management. During this 90 minute presentation, you will learn the ins and outs of rain garden technology including proper sighting, design, and installation methods. Each participant will be given a list of resources to help them create a rain garden on their own property. This event is sponsored by Ottauquechee Natural Resources Conservation District which will also have available garden and pasture soil tests and information on invasive plants and rain barrel construction. Local food snacks will be served. $10 admission fee. Please contact Greenall@vermontel.net or 802-436-2266 for more information.
Instructor: Elaine Grehl holds a BS in Landscape Horticulture from Michigan State University and an MS in Public Horticulture from the Longwood Gardens Graduate Program at the University of Delaware. She has experience as a landscape foreman, landscape designer, general manager of a production greenhouse and garden center, and natural resource technician. Elaine designed and installed one of the nation’s first public demonstration rain gardens on the campus of the University of Delaware.
