Rain gardens consist of native plants that have adapted to our climate. They have deep, dense root systems that can capture and infiltrate stormwater runoff. Rain gardens keep stormwater out of our sewer systems and reduce pollution that enters our waterways. This helps achieve safe, clean waterways for our community.
Rain gardens infiltrate storm water runoff by catching runoff before it reaches the storm drains. Diverting storm water into rain gardens from our roofs and other hard surfaces such as driveways or patios, helps improve the water quality of our local streams and at the same time creates functioning gardens which support biodiversity.
When sized and constructed properly, rain gardens are able to handle the amount of storm water produced in an average event. One inch of rain, covering an average 30 feet X 50 feet roof surface = 1,500 square feet or 935 gallons of water!
MSD Rain Garden handbooks are available to download or request a print version by calling MSD Customer Relations at 502.540.6000.
If you are interested in seeing a rain garden, visit the gardens below:
- MSD Main Office, 700 W Liberty Street
- The Louisville Nature Center, 3745 Illinois Avenue
- Flavorman – 809 S. 8th Street
- Brown Forman Breckinridge Lot – 1739 Garland Avenue
- Louisville Grows Healthy House – 641 Portland Avenue
- Parklands Brown Forman Silo Center – 8636 Turkey Run Parkway
- AP Sawyer Park – 9310 Whipps Mill Road
- Sacred Heart Academy – 3175 Lexington Road
- Masonic Homes – 320 Joe Conway Circle
- Assumption Athletic Complex – 4500 Champions Trace Lane
Rain Barrels
Rain barrels collect and store rain water from your roof top to use later for watering your garden or lawn. Since introducing the concept of rain barrels in April 2006, MSD has placed approximately 400 throughout the community. Each barrel provides storage for 58 gallons of water.
Due to an increase in demand for rain barrels, MSD has partnered with a local vocational group, Louisville Youthbuild to convert the food-grade barrels into rain barrels. The process allows Youthbuild students to gain construction skills. MSD provides the barrels, parts, and adaptors for construction.
Through the Louisville Nature Center rain barrels are assembled for public sale. To assist with sale and distribution of the barrels MSD has partnered with the Louisville Nature Center (LNC) to reserve, sell, and schedule pick up times. Each rain barrel comes with installation and maintenance instructions. Rain barrels can be ordered online at https://www.louisvillenaturecenter.org/community-support. The LNC phone number is 458-1328 and is located across from the Louisville Zoo at 3745 Illinois Avenue.
