I attended a short workshop by DC Greenworks this morning in the rain. We saw a small demonstration rain garden they were planting and heard about the benefits of rain barrels and green roofs. It sounds like a great organization: "DCG sees a vital connection between ecology and economy, between employment potential and environmental sustainability. We actively seek to discover, promote, and deliver cutting-edge solutions that are cost-effective, eco-friendly, and socially beneficial."
Rain Barrels
"The rain barrels we provide are made by the youth of Shaw EcoVillage Project Rain. To produce our RainKeeper barrels, the Shaw EcoVillage Project first acquires used syrup containers that would otherwise be thrown away from a local Pepsi distributor. Project Rain youth then transform these barrels into one of the highest quality rain barrels for the money on the market. Similar barrels retail for $75-$100."
Rain Gardens
"Given that up to 70% of pollution in streams, rivers, and lakes comes from stormwater runoff, any size rain garden will help to improve water quality and aquatic habitat. Additionally, increased groundwater recharge relieves strain on water treatment facilities while preserving the natural hydrology of the landscape.
Rain gardens are depressed or "bowl-shaped" landscaped areas that function as miniature wetlands. Typically planted with wildflowers and other native vegetation, a rain garden provides a place for stormwater to infiltrate, allowing approximately 30% more water to soak into the ground. Following a heavy rain, stormwater will pond in the rain garden and be filtered by the plants and soil rather than running off into the nearest storm drain. As up to 70% of pollution in streams, rivers and lakes comes from stormwater runoff, a rain garden is a Low Impact Development technique of inestimable value in improving water quality by increasing absorption of runoff near its source."
Green Roofs
"Greenroofs are lightweight, low-maintenance vegetated roof systems used as a cost-efficient, eco-sensitive alternative to conventional roofing. A proven technology that has been used in Europe for half a century, Greenroofs work with almost any type of architectural structure, including most types of commercial, multifamily and industrial buildings, as well as single-family dwellings and garages.
Greenroofing offers an attractive alternative to the barren deserts of tar, gravel and asphalt usually seen from urban windows. Publicly accessible greenroofs provide needed urban greenspace fostering community gathering and recreation. Greenroof technology offers an attractive, cost-effective method for addressing rising utility costs caused by increased development, summer shortages and the Urban Heat Island effect. Greenroofing can easily pay for itself over the long term."
I attended a short workshop by DC Greenworks this morning in the rain. We saw a small demonstration rain garden they were planting and heard about the benefits of rain barrels and green roofs. It sounds like a great organization: "