Rain Gardens

Rain gardens are an effective and beautiful way to reduce stormwater runoff, flooding, and water pollution. 

A basin structure captures water and allows it to slowly percolate through the soil, recharging groundwater supplies. Plants and soil microbes filter and break down pollutants preventing them from reaching our drinking water.

The gardens are planted entirely with native plants which support local biodiversity, especially pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These plants do not require added fertilizers or pesticides, further protecting our waterways.

Locations & Background

Summit has three rain gardens on municipal property, located at City Hall and the library. The gardens were installed in 2016 by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension Service with support from the Summit Environmental Commission and Summit Department of Community Services. They were funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation's Hurricane Sandy Coastal Resiliency Competitive Grants Program, the Merck Foundation, and the New Jersey Watershed Institute. 

Square image that says click here for a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the rain gardens.

City Hall: 512 Springfield Avenue

Rain garden
Rain garden

Summit Free Public Library: 75 Maple Street

Rain garden
Rain garden

Want some native plant seeds to grow at home? Visit the Native Seed Library at the Summit Free Public Library.

Resources

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Rain garden sign