Most homeowners and regular folks probably think they don't have much chance to make a positive impact on larger environmental problems such as flooding, water quality in streams or declining wildlife habitat. These seem to be issues left to the government agencies, engineers, water quality specialists or wildlife experts.

Let's put that myth to rest. Every homeowner and landowner can make a big difference in the health of our environment... and enjoy a little slice of biodiversity right at home in the back yard. You can build a "Rain Garden" in your yard that contributes greatly to reduced rainwater runoff, reduced flooding and improved water quality in our streams, lakes and wetlands. At the same time, your Rain Garden will be a natural haven for wildlife that are welcome in urban environments, or any backyard. Your Rain Garden can provide shelter and food for birds, butterflies, dragonflies, lightning bugs, frogs and a host of other interesting and beautiful creatures.