As climate patterns shift, Franklin County is expected to experience up to 30% more rainfall each spring over the next decade. This increase in precipitation means more stormwater runoff—and with it, a greater risk of flooding. Traditionally, communities have relied on gray infrastructure—like sewers, tunnels, and treatment plants—to manage stormwater. While these systems remain essential, green infrastructure offers a complementary and often more sustainable approach. These nature-based solutions not only manage stormwater but also enhance community spaces, support biodiversity, and improve water quality.

What Is Green Infrastructure?
Green infrastructure uses vegetation, soils, and natural processes to:

• Slow and reduce stormwater runoff, helping prevent downstream flooding
• Filter pollutants before they reach rivers, streams, and other water bodies

Functional Landscapes for UA
Rain gardens are shallow, landscaped areas designed to absorb and filter stormwater runoff from roofs, driveways, sidewalks, and lawns. Planted with hardy, deep-rooted native species, they thrive in both wet and dry conditions, making them as visually appealing as they are functional. By slowing down and soaking in rainwater, rain gardens help reduce flooding and erosion, improve soil health and drainage, and filter out pollutants such as oil, metals, and excess nutrients before they reach local streams.

How They Work
Rainwater is directed into the garden through downspouts, curb cuts, or rain barrels, where it slowly soaks into the ground instead of flowing into storm drains. Deep-rooted plants help break up compacted soil, improving water absorption, while the soil and vegetation work together to naturally trap and filter out pollutants.

Upper Arlington Residents May Qualify for $250 Rain Garden Rebate
If you’re a homeowner in Upper Arlington, you may qualify for a $250 rebate through Franklin Soil and Water’s Rain Garden Rebate Program. To get started, participate in the Community Backyards program by completing the online course or attending a local workshop. Then, submit a rain garden application. FSWCD staff will contact you within two business days to schedule a preliminary site visit to determine if your property is a good fit. Click here to learn more