12,000 Rain Gardens Campaign Builds Habitat and Protects Puget Sound
Katie Cordrey — June 19, 2011 — Eco
References: cahnrsnews.wsu.edu & seattletimes.nwsource
In the spirit of the phrase “if you have lemons, make lemonade,” it makes perfect sense for residents of Seattle and the nearby Olympic Peninsula, who receive between 36 and 52 inches of rain each year, to make rain gardens. These particular rain gardens are landscape installations that handle the downpour of polluted runoff from hard surfaces -- like roofs and driveways -- that will eventually find its way into the Puget Sound. The rain gardens prevent flooding, increase home value, and provide a habitat for birds and butterflies.
The 12,000 Rain Gardens Campaign is a joint venture of Washington State University Extension and the nonprofit Stewardship Partners that visualizes the installation of12,000 rain gardens by the year 2016 -- a number that could soak up about 160 million gallons of polluted runoff annually.
Image Credit: 1-3 | 4 | 5-7 | 8-9 | 10
The 12,000 Rain Gardens Campaign is a joint venture of Washington State University Extension and the nonprofit Stewardship Partners that visualizes the installation of12,000 rain gardens by the year 2016 -- a number that could soak up about 160 million gallons of polluted runoff annually.
Image Credit: 1-3 | 4 | 5-7 | 8-9 | 10
Trend Themes
1. Urban Rain Gardens - Opportunity to develop and create eco-friendly urban rain gardens to handle polluted runoff and increase biodiverse habitats.
2. Green Landscaping - New industry standards for green landscaping due to the popularity of rain gardens for their ability to prevent flooding and increase home value.
3. Sustainable Drainage Solutions - Future trend for property developers and landscapers to incorporate greener drainage solutions, shifting away from conventional systems.
Industry Implications
1. Landscaping Industry - Opportunity for landscapers to offer eco-friendly solutions and capitalize on the growing trend towards more environmentally conscious practices.
2. Construction Industry - Opportunity for construction companies to overhaul drainage systems and incorporate sustainable, eco-friendly solutions.
3. Environmental Consulting - Growing demand for environmental consulting services to provide expert advice about the design and implementation of sustainable drainage solutions.
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