Value of Rain Gardens in Winnipeg: The Ecole St. Avila Rain Garden Case Study

Abstract

With rising concern about flooding and water pollution in the Red River and particularly in Lakes Manitoba and Winnipeg in recent years, building rain gardens in cities may become one solution with considerable potential for improving water quality. The literature illustrated the many benefits that can be provided by a rain garden system, not only aesthetically pleasing gardens with educational and biodiversity values, but they also can reduce storm water pollution and flooding in downstream water bodies.

In order to address questions of public understanding and perceptions of their usefulness so as to better promote future implementation, the study examined social feedback about rain gardens through a survey at Ecole St Avila, an elementary school in Winnipeg. The findings from the survey indicated that the largest obstacles for rain garden development are funding and the lack of knowledge by the public.