The concept of rain gardens is starting to grow in popularity throughout the United States in efforts to reduce water pollution, reduce soil erosion and even help control disease. Rain gardens, which can contain a variety of native plants, are planted in shallow or deep depression (depending on the need) wherein rain water is captured and has the opportunity to slowly saturate the ground rather than run off into storm drains, lakes, oceans causing pollution and soil erosion. Statistics say these gardens can reduce pollution by 30%.

Several state municipalities already have programs in place utilizing rain gardens. Right now, New Jersey is looking at implementing rain gardens to polluted rainwater from further damages waterways including the Atlantic Ocean. West Michigan Environmental Action Council started their rain garden initiative to help reduce West Nile Virus. In the town of Maplewood Minnesota, communities have come together to plan and create rain gardens in neighborhood. Kansas City Missouri started the 10,000 Rain Garden plan in the KC metro area in the hopes that residents will eventually plant 10,000 of these gardens.

West Michigan’s efforts started with trying to thwart the spread of West Nile Virus. Because these gardens collect water, how can rain garden actually help? Properly constructed rain gardens drain water in about 24 hours, but usually in as little as one to two hours. Mosquitoes are drawn to stagnant pools of water like birdbaths, pots, etc. By removing installing the garden gives areas proper drainage, helping to get rid of mosquitoes.

In addition to helping with the health of the people in a community and reducing soil erosion and hopefully helping to keep polluted rain water out of the lakes and oceans, the gardens are support native plant growth and creating beauty in all environments from city areas to the suburbs.