Stormwater Runoff Helped by Rain Gardens

     Storm water runoff can cause huge problems for the environment. It often carries pollutants like pesticides, fertilizers, and animal waste into drinking sources and nearby ecosystems. However, through a process of green infrastructure, storm water can be returned to the ground to safely provide for plants and animals. This can be done through rain gardens that retain storm water runoff from roofs, parking lots and driveways. This water can then be treated and safely returned to the environment.
​     The Anacostia Waterfront Trust, a non-profit organization that supports the creation of waterfront along the Anacostia River, was able to build one of these rain gardens through its RainPay program at the Progressive National Baptist Church in Washington D.C.. According to RainPay’s SRC-Generating Rain Garden Project case study in a 1.7-inch storm, the rain garden retained over 11,000 gallons of stormwater runoff from the church. If not retained, this water would flow directly into Watts Branch River untreated.
    If you would like to read the full case study on the rain garden at the Progressive National Church you can visit that here at DOEE SRC Case Study.
      If you wish to learn more about the work of The Anacostia Waterfront Trust visit their website at The Anacostia Waterfront Trust ​