Four bioswales across the District help prevent the flow of pollutants into freshwater ecosystems and provide a natural way to manage storm water in an urban setting. Over 250 plant species that support pollinators can be found in our bioswales located at the Oak Park Conservatory, Barrie Park, and CRC.

Rain gardens were installed at the Austin Gardens Environmental Education Center, Carroll Park, Stevenson Park, and Euclid Square Park. Similar to a bioswale, rain gardens are planted with deep-rooted native wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs that filter storm water runoff by removing nutrients, sediments, and pollutants before entering groundwater and waterways.

Learn more about rain gardens here.