Get ready to learn how to create beautiful, sustainable rain gardens! Registration for the Certified Master Rain Gardener Class is open! This hands-on course will teach you everything you need to know about rain garden design and installation, giving you the skills to create your own rain garden or assist in maintaining community gardens.
Classes will take place in person at the Metroparks Toledo Glass Pavilion. To learn more about the Toledo Lucas County Rain Garden Initiative (RGI) and the Master Rain Gardener Classes visit their website!
When it comes to capturing rainwater, many gardeners will tell you it’s a great way to lower your water bills during the growing season. However, ecologists will also highlight the environmental benefits: capturing rainwater helps reduce the flow of nutrients and contaminants into our streams, rivers, and lakes. But how does installing a rain barrel or rain garden prevent contaminants from entering our waterways when there’s usually not much contamination in the rain itself?
The answer is simple: as rainwater runs off hard surfaces like sidewalks, roads, and lawns, it picks up pollutants—fertilizers, oil, grease, road salt, and more. These contaminants can harm aquatic life and contribute to issues like the annual Lake Erie algal blooms fueled by nutrient-laden runoff. By utilizing rain barrels to collect the water before it touches the ground, you are saving money and our environment! Don’t wait, sign up today🤩