Franklin Residential Rain Garden Project

Welcome to Franklin's Residential Rain Garden Project.  This website connects you with resources to build a rain garden in your own home that will help soak up the rain and prevent stormwater runoff from your property. The Residential Rain Garden Project is part of a larger commitment by the Town of Franklin to reduce stormwater runoff to the Charles River and associated pollution. 
 

What is a Rain Garden? 

A rain garden is designed to collect and treat rainwater running off from impervious surfaces including driveways, rooftops, and streets using soil and plant media.  Rain gardens are planted with perennials and grasses that can withstand both wet and dry conditions. 

Why Build a Rain Garden? 

Rainwater that falls onto roofs, roads or driveways cannot soak into the ground, instead this water rushes into storm drains, which often drain directly to rivers and lakes, carrying pollutants.  A rain garden catches rainwater, filters it, and allows the water to soak back into the ground.  This keeps pollution, including nutrients that would cause too many plants to grow in the river, out of the Charles River while replenishing ground water levels. The rain garden adds beauty and visual interest to your property and serves as an attractive landscape feature.  

About this Program 

A collaboration between the Town of Franklin Department of Public Works and Charles River Watershed Association, the Residential Rain Garden Project provides residents of Franklin the opportunity to attend a free rain garden training and support for building a rain garden at their home. 

On this website you can register for a training, follow our rain garden guide, and choose a rain garden kit.