05/18/2022
On April 23rd GRSLBG&B Associate Patrick Nemes along with members of the Hamilton Environmental Commission, Hamilton Department of Public Works and community volunteers installed a rain garden at George Dye Tract in Hamilton, New Jersey.
Rain gardens are shallow, constructed depressions that are planted with deep-rooted native plants and grasses. They are strategically located to capture runoff from hard surfaces such as a driveway, parking area, sidewalk or streets. During a storm, a rain garden fills with water, and the water slowly filters into the ground rather than running into storm sewers. Compared to a patch of lawn, a rain garden allows about 30% more water to soak into the ground. By capturing stormwater rain gardens help to reduce nonpoint source pollution (i.e., road sediment/salt, fertilizers, pesticides, bacteria from pet waste, eroded soil, grass clippings, litter, etc.) and help to protect local waterways. Rain gardens also add beauty to neighborhoods and provide wildlife habitat.
The project included the planting of over 100 native plants donated by local community members including Swamp Milkweed, Purple Coneflower, Black-Eyed Susan, Swamp Hibiscus, Blue Flag Iris, Blazing Star and Violets. This project turned an unsightly puddle along the parks edge into a thriving pollinator habitat that will help to protect our local waterways. This was the first of a number of planned pollinator habitat restoration projects planned in Hamilton Township.
GRSLGB&B celebrates its team members civic and community engagement and congratulates Patrick and the Hamilton Community on the newest rain garden.