Purdue’s rain gardens, shallow impressions in the ground filled with beautiful native plants, help improve water quality in the nearby Wabash River and Harrison Pond. Rain garden plants capture 30% more water than a typical lawn and act as a filter, helping to remove fertilizers, pesticides, oils, and other contaminants coming from our roofs, lawns, driveways, or parking lots. This practice mimics natural hydrology by infiltrating, evaporating and transpiring stormwater runoff. Rain gardens also serve as a vibrant habitat for local animals and insects. Office of University Sustainability
