Illinois Extension program teaches rainscaping practices

MACOMB, Ill. — Illinois Extension will be the host of a rainscaping workshop in Hancock County. During this series of classes, participants can learn landscape design and management practices that reduce pollution from runoff. This four-part workshop will take place on Sept. 12, 14, 19 and 21 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at 130 Young Street, Nauvoo, in Building A.

University of Illinois Extension has partnered with Purdue Extension stormwater specialists in Indiana to bring this program to rural Illinois counties. In a press release, Kara Salazar, a sustainable communities Extension specialist with Purdue and Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, said “Landscapes with rainscaping capture stormwater more effectively, which prevents polluted runoff from homes and communities from reaching our local lakes, streams, and rivers. The Purdue Rainscaping Education Program will teach participants how to promote community awareness and education for these important practices.”

Participants will learn how to site, design, construct and maintain a rain garden. Workshops include flipped classroom instruction through online training modules and hands-on activities. Participants will also create a demonstration rain garden in a public space with community partners. A certificate of completion will be awarded to those who attend all sessions and the rain garden installation.

To register for the program, contact the Illinois Extension Hancock County office at 217-357-2150 or
go online go.illinois.edu/RainGarden. This program is free but registration is required for ordering of
program materials. To learn more about the Rainscaping Education Program IISG sustainability programs, visit bit.ly/purduesustainablecommunities.