Which method effectively improves water quality in landscaped areas?

Implementing rain gardens is an effective method for improving water quality in landscaped areas because they are designed to capture and filter stormwater runoff. Rain gardens are shallow, planted depressions that allow rainwater from impervious surfaces, such as roofs and driveways, to be absorbed into the ground rather than entering stormwater systems directly.

This process helps reduce runoff and allows pollutants, such as excess nutrients, heavy metals, and sediments, to settle and be absorbed by plants and soil. The native plants typically used in rain gardens not only enhance the aesthetic value of the landscape but also provide habitat for wildlife and support biodiversity. Additionally, by promoting infiltration, rain gardens contribute to groundwater recharge, which is beneficial for maintaining local water tables and ecosystems.

Other methods, such as the use of chemical pesticides, may have adverse environmental impacts by contributing to water pollution through runoff. Paving all surfaces can increase impermeable areas, exacerbating runoff issues and leading to more significant pollution. Traditional storm drainage systems often focus solely on moving water away quickly, without addressing the quality of that water or utilizing natural filtration methods.