2 simple steps to prepare your yard + garden for the fall rains
Native plants and permeable surfaces mitigate runoff and protect waterways
Our long sunny days can make it feel like we’re still in the middle of summer, but the onset of fall means the rainy season won’t be far behind.
Remembering last year’s record rainfall in the Capital Region, and with climate projections indicating this trend will continue, now is the perfect time for some simple projects around your property that will help capture, slow down and store rainwater. This will minimize peak flows and reduce neighborhood flooding.
Historically, stormwater systems were designed to drain water from the earth as quickly as possible. But it can be like turning a fire hose on local creeks and streams, devastating fish habitat. Today, we know the importance of allowing rainwater to infiltrate into the ground to help protect aquatic habitat, filter pollutants, and capture and store rainwater.
That’s why local municipalities have installed green stormwater infrastructure in the area, but there are things homeowners can do too.
- Plant native trees and shrubs – Native plant species have thrived in our region for millennia and have evolved with native insects, birds and mammals to support each other. They are also water efficient and require little watering or fertilizing once established in the right location.
Native trees and shrubs can also help manage rainwater by absorbing and storing rain where it falls in our yards – creating an absorbing landscape is one of the best things you can do to reduce and prevent storms. floods in the face of climate change.
And, as an added benefit of promoting biodiversity and a healthy ecosystem, you’ll also create critical habitat for local wildlife, including migratory birds and pollinators. To find out more, including a wide range of native plant options for your garden, click here.
Video – Native Plants
- Reduce paved surfaces – As native vegetation is removed to create roads, driveways and buildings, these hard surfaces cannot absorb rain. This creates stormwater runoff that can cause flooding, erosion, pollution and habitat degradation in our waterways.
Where possible, instead of impermeable hard landscaped areas, choose permeable paving options such as brick, grass or gravel, which allow rain to naturally absorb where it falls.
Video – permeable paving
To learn more about how you can help support the local environment, visit www.crd.bc.ca/live-green
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