August - September 2005

We are working on a pilot project with Landcare Research to investigate the effectiveness of rain gardens at treating and improving stormwater quality.

The project, which is near the intersection of Paul Matthews Road and Omega Street in Albany, involves the construction of a 340 square metre rain garden comprised of layers of sand, gravel and soil, planted with appropriate vegetation and surrounded by a low earth wall.

The rain garden will filter impurities from the stormwater, and Landcare will monitor the quality of the water as it flows from the garden to an outgoing drain.

In consultation with the Albany Community Board, the project is expected to start in October and will cost $160,000 to complete.