A rain garden is a planted depression that allows rainwater runoff from impervious urban areas like roofs, driveways, walkways, parking lots, and compacted lawn areas the opportunity to be absorbed. It reduces rain runoff by allowing stormwater to soak into the ground as opposed to flowing into storm drains and surface waters which causes erosion, water pollution, flooding, and diminished groundwater.
A rain barrel is any large container designed to collect rain water. Usually, the rain barrel is placed at the bottom of a downspout to collect rainwater as it runs off of a roof.
Construction of a rain garden or barrel can qualify homeowners for a one-time credit. See the Credit Application.
More Information
Article: Article: What is a Rain Barrel? (PDF)
Article: What is a Rain Garden? (PDF)
Flyer: What is a Rain Garden? (PDF)
Slideshow: Constructing a Rain Garden at the Airport (PDF)