Facilities and Services (F&S) is funding a faculty-student project in conjunction with the Environmental Council. The project begins Spring 2006 and by the end of the summer the University will have its first rain garden designed by UIUC faculty and students.
Rain gardens are beautiful landscape features, combining aesthetics with functionality. They capture storm water and filter out pollutants. Some studies show that rain gardens absorb approximately 30% more rainwater than conventional lawns.
Drainage
is an issue near Allen Hall and McKinley Health Center. At certain times
of the year, the sidewalk that leads to the Health Center is flooded. The
Rain Garden will mitigate the drainage issue, improve water quality, and
enhance the campus experience.
Our next issue of At Your Service will have more details and pictures as the project progresses!
