Raingarden Summary

Project Summary: Raingardens are depressions designed to catch stormwater runoff. Plants and grasses that tolerate a wide range of moisture conditions are used in raingardens, but a well-designed garden will drain within 48 hours after a rain. Raingardens provide an opportunity to create a beautiful landscape and wildlife habitat. They slow erosion, and help prevent pollution by allowing stormwater to soak into the ground instead of flowing over hard, urban landscapes directly into lakes and rivers. As part of the Arlington Pascal Street Improvement Project, eight raingardens were constructed including one garden in Como Park built in cooperation with St. Paul Divisions of Parks and Recreation.

How it works: Raingardens are positioned to receive stormwater runoff from streets or sidewalks. Deeply rooted plants loosen soil and create channels for stormwater to seep back into the ground. These gardens improve water quality, and contribute to rate and volume control by receiving the first, most polluted flush from a rain storm. Raingardens are also a neighborhood amenity they add beauty, wildlife interest and opportunity for education.

Project Details: Owner: Capitol Region Watershed District Contractor: Natural Shore Technology, Maple Plain, MN; Danner, Inc., South St. Paul, MN Engineer: EOR, Inc., Oakdale, MN Cost: Ranging from $5,000 to $35,000 Land Treatment Area: 2 to 10 acres