Elk Grove Rain Garden Plaza
Elk Grove Rain Garden Plaza (City of Elk Grove) Photo Credit: elkgrovecity.org
Project Description
In the past, flood control focused on moving water quickly away from properties into a larger stormwater system and out to the ocean. Now emphasis is shifting to designing systems that mimic natural patterns and keep more rainwater close to where it falls.
The Elk Grove Rain Garden Plaza is a one-acre site incorporating a wetland, surrounded by swales and native plants/trees that acts as a mini watershed. The park includes a large rain garden, examples of pervious (allows water to soak in) paving material such as pavers and porous concrete, and rain barrels and rain chains…. all ways to collect rain where it falls and keep it local.
The Plaza collects water to help the native plants grow. Locally sourced plants work with the local microclimate and provide a habitat for insects and birds. The plaza works with nature to incorporate “river-friendly” landscaping techniques that incorporate green infrastructure ideas into a small space.
Techniques Used
Rain garden
Biofiltration swales
Pervious paving systems
Water harvesting features
California native, drought resistant plants
Canopied picnic area, fitness equipment, and local artwork
Rain Ready Benefits
Improved water quality
Habitat a magnet for wildlife
Demonstrates earth-friendly techniques to the community
Case Studies
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![County of LA’s Safe Clean Water Program]()
County of LA’s Safe Clean Water Program
This one-of-a-kind program invests approximately $280 million annually into multi-benefit rainwater collection projects and programs.
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![Earvin Magic Johnson Park]()
Earvin Magic Johnson Park
The rainwater collection system at this popular park collects up to 85% of the water that was flowing away and brings community health benefits to a disadvantaged area.
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![East Los Angeles Sustainable Median Stormwater Capture Project]()
East Los Angeles Sustainable Median Stormwater Capture Project
The project collects more rainwater, while also adding much-needed greenspace to a couple of parched and barren medians in East Los Angeles.
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![Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District Stormwater Basin System]()
Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District Stormwater Basin System
The system collects and channels rainwater that once caused flooding. But is now channeled safely to recharge the water supply, while adding green space and places for rest and recreation.
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![San Mateo County Sustainable Streets Master Plan]()
San Mateo County Sustainable Streets Master Plan
The Plan includes multi-benefit projects designed to improve street conditions for walkability, cycling, urban greening, climate resiliency and water quality.
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![Orange Memorial Park, South San Francisco]()
Orange Memorial Park, South San Francisco
The park is the site of an underground rainwater collection project that will return as much as 78 million gallons of water to the groundwater basin each year, while providing renovated athletic fields for the community.
