The New leaf Eco Center Bioswales Event

On March 16th TLC successfully conducted phase one of our Bioswales Demonstration Workshop thanks to all of the participants that came out to learn about stormwater management and help dig! We had a group of 10 people brave the cold, and at one point snowy weather, to dig one 18"x18"x100 yard bioswale on the hill at the north west corner of the property. Another longer bioswale was installed the next day with the excavator and some additional volunteer help. After a presentation on storm water management and bioswale installation, we used a mini-excavator and hand tools to dig the bioswale and create the planting bed.

 First we had to gently move a groundhog that was in the way, which shows that there are some things you don't plan on that you may have to work around. Once the groundhog was safely in his hole we marked out the area where we wanted to install the bioswale with orange flags.

 Once we knew where we wanted the bioswale to be we started digging with the excavator and hand tools to give us the proper shape.

There were many rocks, roots, and clay filled soil but we persevered and soon we had an excellent bioswale dug out and ready for wood chips to be added.   

 After we add wood chips the next steps are to mix in compost with the soil in the planting bed and plant native plants to help with water infiltration and making the bioswale beautiful.

Thanks again to everyone who came out and I hope to see you and more at the next phase of the bioswales installation later this spring when we plant our native plant species.