One way to reduce stormwater runoff is to recycle the rain in a rain barrel. Watch a video here to learn one method of setting up a collection system. You can get very creative with not only the decoration of your barrel but also the movement of the water. Some use pumps or elaporate plumbing to route the water where it is needed.
Rain Barrel workshops are offered monthly at the Manatee County Extension Office. To inquire or register for this series contact the Manatee County UF/IFAS Extension office at 941-722-4524 or email michelleatkinson@ufl.edu
Another way to reduce stormwater runoff is to install a rain garden. A rain garden is a shallow, constructed 
depression that is planted with deep-rooted native plants and grasses. It is designed to receive runoff from impervious, hard surfaces such as parking lots, roads and roofs, while also collecting rainwater from pervious surfaces like lawns. Rain gardens slow down the flow from these surfaces, hold the water for a short period of time, and allow it to naturally infiltrate into the soil. This infiltration reduces the amount of runoff, and the native plants, mulch and soil in a rain garden combine with natural physical, chemical and biological processes to filter out stormwater pollutants. Porous surfaces should be used whenever possible for traffic areas such as driveways, walkways, and patios. Materials such as gravel, mulch and pervious concrete will allow rainwater to seep into the ground. A positive byproduct will be that the porous surfaces will act as a filter if any runoff is captured.
Recycling the Rain is a great way to conserve water. Have fun and go wild developing your own systems. Please share your photos and stories with me.
Consult the Manatee County UF/IFAS Extension office with questions at 941-722-4524 or email michelleatkinson@ufl.edu.
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