Page 28 - Green Builder March-April 2016 Issue

Working with Water

Several strategies work
together to slow the flow in
this suburban landscape.

S TORMWATER MANAGEMENT WAS an important goal
for the Swaffords’ steep site.
“We tried to slow the flow in a couple of ways,” says
Muir. The strategies include capturing and directing
stormwater, infiltration features and pervious hardscaping,
which work together to ensure stormwater is treated by plants and
soil (and recharges groundwater) rather than carrying sediment and
pollutants to the creek that flows to the northwest of the property.

Slough Sedge (Carex obnupta)—a clumping grass-like native
that can handle having “wet feet”—was planted along the porch to
intercept overland flow. Simply replacing the large swaths of lawn
with a mixture of plants of varying heights helped intercept water
and improves infiltration. The stepped gardens interrupt the flow
of stormwater, while making the site more walkable.

CREDIT: JUSTIN JAMES MUIR
CREDIT: JUSTIN JAMES MUIR
Pervious Pathways. Much of the hardscaping includes wider joints
Edgy Strategy. This “butterfly border” was planted thickly, creating which allow stormwater to infiltrate.
a break for run-off between the lawn and children’s play area.
A rain garden serves to actively treat stormwater. Water is directed
26 GREEN BUILDER March/April 2016 from the home’s roof to a naturally low spot in the orchard; from
there it is piped underground to the rain garden. The rain garden
includes a mix of species; river rock helps filter out sediment and
adds texture.

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