Ecological Rain Garden

 

"We had an option to do nothing and let the water run into the bay or we could add something that was attractive and helped the environment..."  said Russ Gowland regarding a rain garden project he spear headed for his church in Naples, Florida.  The purpose of the 4,000ft garden is to capture rain run off, filter out chemicals and look beautiful full of native plants that attract butterflies and birds.  Not only does the garden replace large high water maintenance grass areas but it also manages run off from the large church parking lot.  In the process they engaged local kids to help with the establishment of the garden offering up ownership and pride.

“We wanted to reduce the amount of water
needed for the lawn and planting so we
did away with sodded areas and replaced
them with native Florida plantings said Gowland as they surveyd the results in preparation for a specail memorial service.  The service is dedicated to opening our hearts and homes to God this weekend.

Recently I have referred to being frustrated with the news.  The doom and gloom...lack of connection with political leaders...economic woes....environmental disasters... it makes me feel just a tad confused, frustrated and angry.  And then, right in my own family, someone does something I really admire.  My dad, Russ Gowland, chose not to do nothing and headed up the above mentioned project.  On a day when most of us will stop to remember modern horrors it is good to note with hope that we can make a difference...it can start with deciding not to do nothing but rather to do something.  Hmm...what will it be? k

 

Comments

[June]

Congratulations to your Dad, Kathy. Someone who is caring for the environment and people. What a wonderful example for the young people who have helped him and also the rest of us. God bless him.

[Bronwyn Ugonotti]

That's how you do it! Be positive get other people involved, design and make beautiful things. He is a great role model for all of us and I think you follow in his footsteps.

[Susannah]

How inspiring! A friend of mine who is a landscape designer always describes lawns as being "green concrete"...

[Maureen from Ventura]

It's a beautiful garden and a wonderful concept. Thank you for sharing this!

[Meredithe]

It's so encouraging to hear news like this - you're right, so much better than the usual doom and gloom. Well done to your Dad. Thanks for sharing.

[Coach Factory Online]

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[Coach Factory Online]

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[Timberland Hiking Boots]

So cute! I already like you on FB and also get your posts on Google Reader. :)