Rain Gardens to the Rescue

Friends of the Rouge (FOTR) thanks you and the dedicated individuals who contributed support and sweat equity to improve our local rivers this year.  The season is just getting started but we have made great strides so far this year!  Since March 2025, FOTR’s restoration programs have engaged 800 individuals who contributed 1,400 hours to learn about and improve the Rouge and Detroit Rivers.  This was achieved through the coordination of 44 events and workdays to install new plantings, create a pathway through a recent tree planting and to keep existing rain gardens functioning well. 

Together we created just under 6,000 sq. ft. of new gardens that slow the flow of rainwater and store nearly 19,000 gallons of rainwater, reducing the annual runoff by nearly 400,000 gallons.  Using nature-based solutions to solve stormwater problems in urban areas has many benefits, most notably, reducing runoff and removing sediment and other contaminates from rainwater before it enters the river at a relatively low cost.  These gardens also beautify communities, connect neighbors, provide space for people to connect with nature and provide habitat for birds, bees, butterflies and other wildlife.  Research has shown that a connection to nature improves the health and wellbeing of people. 

Gardens installed at the following locations:

• Residential rain gardens in Detroit, MI
• Golfview Park, Plymouth Twp., MI
• Mary Thompson Farm, Southfield, MI
• Southfield Civic Center, Southfield, MI

The work will continue through early October.  Many additional rain gardens are scheduled to be installed in June, August, September and October.  We would love to have you join us!  Cheers to all we have accomplished for our Rouge River!

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