Our lingering sunny days may feel like weB次元官网网址檙e still in the midst of summer, but fallB次元官网网址檚 arrival means the rainy season wonB次元官网网址檛 be far behind.
Remembering last yearB次元官网网址檚 record rainfall events for the Capital Region, and with climate projections indicating this trend will continue, now is the ideal time for a few simple projects around your property that will help capture, slow and store rainwater. This will minimize the peak flows and reduce neighbourhood flooding.
Historically, systems were designed to move water off the land as quickly as possible. But this can be like turning a fire hose on local creeks and streams, devastating fish habitat. Today, we know itB次元官网网址檚 important to allow rainwater to infiltrate into the ground to help protect aquatic habitat, and capture and store rainwater.
ItB次元官网网址檚 why local municipalities have been installing green stormwater infrastructure around the region, but there are things property owners can do as well.
- Plant native trees and shrubs B次元官网网址� have thrived in our region for millennia and have evolved with native insects, birds and mammals to support each other. TheyB次元官网网址檙e also water-wise and require little watering or fertilizing once established in the right spot.
Native trees and shrubs can also help manage rain water by absorbing and storing rain where it falls in our yards B次元官网网址� creating an absorbent landscape is one of the best things you can do to reduce and prevent flooding as we face a changing climate.
And, as an added benefit of promoting biodiversity and a healthy ecosystem, youB次元官网网址檒l also be creating essential habitat for local wildlife including migrating birds and pollinators. For more, including a wide range of native plant options for your garden, .
Where possible, instead of impermeable hardscaped areas, choose such as brick, grass or gravel, which allow the rain to naturally absorb where it falls.
To learn more about ways you can help support the local environment visit