Rain Gardens

the what and why

Rain gardens are designed to collect and hold rainwater from downspouts, driveways, and sidewalks for a short time, allowing the water to slowly seep back into the ground. When planted with the right types of plants, rain gardens also provide food and habitat for bees, birds, butterflies and other beneficial wildlife.

The plants and soil in a rain garden filter pollutants which are picked up within the storm water. This prevents chemicals and nutrients from reaching our lakes, streams and rivers, reducing negative affects such as algae blooms and invasive aquatic weeds.

Using native plants in your rain garden has the benefits of attracting the pollinators and soaking up more water due to their extensive root systems. They are often easier to maintain.

Learn More

Choosing the Right Plants

Right Plant Right Place

Native Plants (U of MN Ext)

Rain Garden Care Guide

Additional Resources

Building a Rain Garden Resources

Building a Rain Garden U of MN Ext

Sustainable Landscape Design Basics

brochure - Marc.inc

bluethumb.org Guide

Water Wisely

END OF STREET RAIN GARDEN

In June 2022 the first END OF STREET rain garden was installed at the end of Overland Lane. The goal is to capture the 8000 sq feet of run-off (from a 1" rain) that flows down the street and into Harrisons Bay. By filtering the run-off we can improve the water quality in Harrisons Bay

In fall of 2022 we applied for the Hennepin County Good Steward Grant for $25,000 to expand the end of street rain gardens. In March 2023 we were awarded the grant.

In partnership with lakeshore residents at Apple Lane we have designed and built a rain garden to handle to run-off at that location. We are currently working with the City of Mound to improve the run-off on Cardinal Lane and stabilize the shoreline.

If you are interested in partnering with the association to add end of street rain gardens to your street, please send an email to harrisonsbayassoc@gmail.com.

Learn More about these projects

Apple Lane Design & Plants

SOAK IT UP!

Choosing the right plants

Plants help improve water quality. They slow down the flow of storm water and their extensive roots soak up any pollutants before they make their way into our bay.

LEARN MORE

lawns for lakes

Lawns are ecosystems that affect surface and groundwater systems. Lawn grasses clean the environment by absorbing gaseous pollutants and intercepting pesticides, fertilizers, dust, and sediment.

LEARN MORE