What is a rain garden?

A rain garden captures stormwater runoff and allows it to slowly soak into the ground. The water that washes off your roof, driveway and your lawn, called stormwater runoff, becomes contaminated by the everyday substances found around your home. In a rain garden, layers of soil and water-loving plants naturally filter and remove pollutants before they flow through the storm drain pipes and into our local streams. These gardens can absorb several times more rainwater than a lawn, while replenishing the groundwater supply and filtering pollutants. They are easy to maintain and, after the plants are well-established, rarely need watering. They also provide a habitat for birds and butterflies.

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Related questions

Sustainable Initiatives (Environment)

Water enters my basement every time it rains. What actions can I take to correct the problem?

One of the first things to check is if the areaway drain outside your basement door is clogged. If drainage and waterproofing measures are in place and you are still having a significant problem, contact the Department of the Environment (DoE) at 301-883-5810. Staff from our office will inspect your property to evaluate and determine the extent of the problem and if a drainage study is necessary.

What is a rain barrel?

A rain barrel captures water from your downspout and stores it. You can use it to water plants in your garden or simply let the water soak slowly into the ground during dry weather. There are many styles and types of rain barrels available. You can even build your own from a cleaned and recycled 55-gallon plastic drum. Explore some sources for purchasing rain barrels.

What is BayScaping?

BayScaping is conservation landscaping that helps protect local streams that lead to the Chesapeake Bay. BayScaping saves money, takes less work, benefits the environment, and gives your yard year-round beauty. Get more BayScaping and Conservation information.

What’s the best way to filter stormwater in my yard?

There are many ways you can slow stormwater runoff down and let it soak into the soil. What works best for you will depend upon the size and layout of your home and property, the type of soil you have, how much you want to spend, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Rainscapes will help you choose between infiltration practices such as rain gardens, rain barrels and BayScaping. For more information, visit the rainscapes page.

What’s the best way to filter stormwater in my yard?

There are many ways you can slow stormwater runoff down and let it soak into the soil. What works best for you will depend upon the size and layout of your home and property, the type of soil you have, how much you want to spend, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. The Rain Check Rebate program will help you choose between infiltration practices such as rain gardens, rain barrels, trees, permeable pavement, and more! For more information, visit the Rain Check Rebate page.

Who do I call for information about flood prevention?

The Department of the Environment (DoE) administers and manages flood awareness and protection programs in the county, as an active participant in the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Community Rating System. For more information, please call DoE at 301-883-5810.