BACKGROUND The Eckman home had major drainage problems. During rain events, several surrounding properties drained onto the property.  A sump pump in the basement worked for long periods of time to keep the basement dry.

GOALS/CONCERNS As an avid birdwatcher with an interest in native plants, the client wanted a solution that benefited not only her property, but also the environment.  Poor soil conditions necessitated the removal of 40 cubic yards of material.

SOLUTIONS After excavating clayey soils, we installed a compost/sand blend. A dry creek bed collects water from two downspouts and carries water from the backyard to a two-tiered rain garden that wraps from the side of the house around to the front.  A small retaining wall separates the two levels of the rain garden and ties into an existing modular retaining wall. The dry creek bed is planted with native shrubs and grasses, and the rain gardens are planted with shade-loving natives.