David Stemper Memorial Rain Garden

Description

The existing surface of compacted construction backfill was essentially impervious. The garden uses shade trees, native plants, pervious surfaces, and swales to contain and absorb rain water that falls on the site. The trees are red maple and river birch, and the swales are planted with a native wildflower seed mix. Walkways are covered with bluestone gravel.

The site is in an highly urban environment, on a corner among high-rise buildings. The garden was designed by Justin Thorn, landscape architect with EcoSolutions and a Surfrider Foundation volunteer. The garden was installed by volunteers from Surfrider's DC Chapter and the surrounding neighborhood.

Funding for materials and construction services came from REI, with additional support from Norcross Wildlife Foundation. Temporary use of the land was provided by Cohen Companies of Rockville, Maryland. Chapel Valley Landscape Company donated excavation services. Trees were purchased at Frager's Hardware. Gravel and topsoil came from DC Materials; other materials came from Standard Supplies.

The garden is dedicated to David Stemper, a Surfrider volunteer and surfer who passed away in 2010.

http://stemperraingarden.blogspot.com