The goal of this workshop was to encourage public and private landowners to install rain gardens on their own property by providing them with a hands-on opportunity to learn how to design, install, and maintain a rain garden.

The new rain garden was constructed on the grounds of the Forest Lake Community Center. The location was selected for its high visibility and the community's enthusiasm and interest in rain gardens.

On Saturday June 7, 2008, eager volunteers helped UDPREP plant nearly 900 native plants and grasses in the new rain garden.

Patty Werner, UDPREP President, welcomed the volunteers and provided an introduction to UDPREP and our mission. She recognized the generous contributions of the donors and volunteers who made this event possible.

Lydia Scott, UDPREP Vice President and designer of the rain garden, explained the purpose of a rain garden and how this particular garden will capture and filter runoff from the nearby community center and parking lot. She told participants how the plants were selected for the location and how different plants have varied requirements for light and soil. Participants were each provided with a list of the plants utilized in the garden.

Lydia instructed the volunteers on proper planting techniques and we went to work. Throughout the event, Lydia answered many questions about native plants and rain gardens. Patty Werner and Jill Hughes related their experiences with their own rain gardens.

This event has generated a lot of excitement. We hope that those who attended will be inspired to plant their own rain gardens.

See the list of plants and a map of this garden...

Learn more about rain gardens...