Welcome to Monmouth Univerity's first rain garden blog!
So... just what is a rain garden?
Monmouth University is leading the way to better water quality in New Jersey. This is being accomplished through Water Watch, a group associated with the Urban Coast Institute, by building a demonstrative rain garden right here on campus. In order to keep you updated on this incredible garden, a blog will be posted each week that will follow up on the newest information on the garden. Now, you have heard the term ‘Rain Garden’ all over the place, but what does it really mean? And how is it supposed to help the environment? Simply stated, it is a garden that is slightly deeper than normal. This is so that runoff from rain and other local water systems can filter into the garden and the water can be purified naturally through the soil. A rain garden is also designed to control storm water, not only to prevent flooding but to also prevent an overabundance of sediments and pollutants from reaching the waterways that eventually lead to the ocean. Stopping the spread of toxins and other pollutants in urban runoff helps to enhance the quality of the water we drink and reduces the need for intense purification systems. Not only does the garden help the environment, but it also helps to bond the community together over a common interest. The garden usually contains a variety of plants that are both decorative and functional. Sculpture and modern art can add to the garden as well. Each rain garden is unique and can help the environment while being attractive to each community.
So, why build a rain garden? Here are the top ten reasons to put one in your community.
10. Less flooding and – storm water control means less puddles and who does not want to have less of those?
9. Inexpensive – only about $3 to $4 dollars on residential lots. Getting the plants donated and having volunteers reduces the cost even more.
8. Landscaping – a great way to improve the atmosphere of the community
7. Education project – Tours and teachers can help to educate kids about their local water quality.
6. Raise awareness of environmental issues/water quality issues
5. Varies in size – so it can improve water quality in small backyards to entire parks.
4. Fun activity - a good place to take local school kids to directly learn about the environment, as well as being a pleasant place to visit.
3. Improve the water that ends up in the ocean, streams and eventually our own drinking water.
2. Recreate/Heal Ecosystems. – By purifying the water quality, the pollutants will help the organisms in the water to repopulate, and therefore the animals that feed on them will repopulate as well.
1. Help save the environment!
