Bioretention Areas Improve Water Quality

3/14/2024

Have you noticed the two bioretention areas on the Lake? Bioretention areas, also known as rain gardens, are one way the Town of Wakefield and FOLQ are helping to manage stormwater runoff into the Lake. This bioretention area, at the north end of the Lake, takes in much of the stormwater runoff from the surrounding area before it enters the lake. This captures pollutants like oil, sediment, fertilizers, and chemicals that build up on our streets and parking lots every day.

In the rain garden, native plants, stones, soils, and soil-dwelling organisms filter the pollutants out and the cleaned stormwater filters downward to replenish the groundwater, creating healthier lakes, streams, ponds, and rivers.

The bioretention area project was funded by a gift from Friends of Lake Quannapowitt to the Town of Wakefield.

Why is this so important?

💦 Improves water quality

💦 Recharges groundwater and aquifers

💦 Provides flood control and reduces erosion

💦 Provides native plant biodiversity

💦 Contributes to wildlife habitat

💦 Beautifies our environment

💦 Educates and promotes discussion about low-impact development techniques to improve sustainability

Bioretention Area at North End of Lake Quannapowitt, Connelly Park

Bioretention areas at Lake Quannapowitt Bioretention areas at Lake QuannapowittBioretention areas at Lake Quannapowitt epa bioretention diagram

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