Surface Water Education

Renew Our Waters

Every choice counts when it comes to water quality. Check out the Renew Our Water website for more information on how you can reduce pollution from everyday activities and help keep our local waters clean. Rain Gardens

Rain gardens are shallow depressions in the ground created to collect and temporarily hold runoff water. They are typically planted with several different native plant species. Rain gardens allow water to filter into the ground and also filter out pollutants. Rain gardens can also be used to attract several beautiful butterflies and birds.

Rain gardens collect runoff water from downspouts, driveways, sidewalks, and lawns. This helps reduce the amount of runoff water that enters waterways and increases water soaking into the ground. Rain gardens also help remove natural and artificial pollutants in the runoff by filtering the water and capturing these pollutants. Rain gardens also create habitat for many different bird and butterfly species.

Healthy Shorelines


New!  Shoreline Living Booklet from Midwest Glacial Lakes Partnership

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