About rain gardens
A rain garden is a dry depression in the landscape that is planted like a garden and allows rainwater to infiltrate into the ground rather than run into storm sewers where it flows untreated into our lakes and waterways.
Allowing rainwater runoff to soak into the ground improves the water quality of our rivers and lakes, reduces the risk of localized flooding, and recharges aquifers.
Benefits
- Improves water quality improvements
- Reduces risks of flooding
- Adds beauty and value to neighborhoods
- Provides wildlife habitat to attract beneficial birds, butterflies, and dragonflies
Maintenance
Like any perennial flower garden, rain gardens need to be watered the first year and weeded semi-annually. Filling in bare spots with mulch is also recommended.
Mosquitoes
Rain gardens hold water for no longer than 48 hours; far shorter than the 7 days of standing water needed to breed mosquitoes. In between rainfalls, the rain gardens are dry.
Why use native prairie plants?
Prairie plants native to Minnesota have deep roots that help break up compacted soils, even clay, to infiltrate water. They are also naturally drought, flood, and pest resistant.
Applying for a rebate
- Install your rain garden.
- Take a photo of your rain garden.
- Submit your rebate form, receipt(s) and photo
or mail in to:
City of Northfield
Engineering Department
801 Washington Street
Northfield, MN 55057 - Look for your rebate on your utility account (all requirements must be met).
Resources
Rain Garden Brochure (PDF)
Factors to consider when considering a rain garden