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RAIN GARDEN TRAINING PROGRAMS: BRINGING NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPERS

Natural Resources/Aquaculture

Madeline Flahive DiNardo
COUNTY AGENT
Berkeley Heights

Abstract

NJ Administrative Codes for new and existing developments require municipalities to implement best management practices to manage stormwater runoff. Among the recommended practices is the installation of rain gardens. Rain gardens are designed to capture, filter and recharge stormwater runoff to groundwater. These regulations create a new opportunity for professional landscapers to offer a niche service, rain garden installation and maintenance, to commercial and residential clientele. Rutgers Cooperative Extension offers a one and a half day training program for landscape professionals. The program is funded by a USDA NIFA National Water Program grant. Since the program began in 2008, 185 professionals have participated. The first day of the program is classroom instruction on stormwater regulations; rain garden site selection, preparation and maintenance; native plants; design and costs. On the second half day program, the landscape professionals install a community demonstration rain garden. Six community demonstration gardens have been installed. Pre/Post tests, consisting of multiple choice questions are used measure knowledge gained by the participants. Average pre/post scores rose from 40% to 80%. The questions that showed the most improvement in scores pertained to rain garden location, drainage rates, and fertilization practices. To measure changes in attitudes/behavior, participants rated statements on a Likert Scale (1 being strongly disagree to 5, strongly agree) at the beginning and end of the program. The professionals reported a better understanding of costs; correcting drainage problems; and site selection, preparation and maintenance, at the end of the program. Authors: Cummings, M., Obropta, C., Flahive DiNardo, M. , Boyajian, A., Pearson, B.
  1. Cummings, M. Program Associate, Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Gloucester County, New Jersey, 08312
  2. Obropta, C. Extension Specialist in Water Resources, Rutgers Cooperative Extension Water Resources Program, New Jersey, 08901
  3. Flahive DiNardo, M. County Agent, Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County, New Jersey, 07090
  4. Boyajian, A. Program Associate, Rutgers Cooperative Extension Water Resources Program, New Jersey, 08901
  5. Pearson, B. Program Associate, Rutgers Cooperative Extension Water Resources Program, New Jersey, 08901