Bourne Will Host Free Rain Garden Workshop
Bourne will offer a free rain garden workshop as part of ongoing water quality initiatives. The event is set for Saturday, June 8, from 9 AM to noon on the south lawn of town hall at 24 Perry Avenue, with a rain date of June 15.
The workshop, led by an expert from the Horsley Witten Group of Sandwich, will offer practical, hands-on training in building a rain garden, which is vital for reducing runoff and improving water quality. Workshop participants will learn why rain gardens are important and how to implement them, as well as be entered for a chance to win a Great American Rain Barrel for their own rain garden. Details about the barrel can be found on the town website at bit.ly/barrelinfo.
The event is free, but registration is required and will be capped at 30 participants. Attendees should bring gloves, a hat, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle.
Those interested in participating in the rain garden workshop must register by June 3 by emailing sfitch@townofbourne.com or calling 508-759-0600, extension 1344.
The workshop, the town said, is a key component of the Queen Sewell Pond Watershed Action Plan, which aims to enhance local water quality through green stormwater infrastructure.
“Building a rain garden is a straightforward yet powerful way to contribute to our community’s environmental health,” town engineer Timothy Lydon said in a town news release. “It is easy to do and does not require professional help.”
In August the Horsley Witten Group, along with Bourne town officials, held public meetings to discuss the Queen Sewell Pond Watershed project. Residents were invited to express their concerns and learn more about the initiative. The upcoming workshop, the town said, continues that community engagement effort, emphasizing Bourne’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
“As we move forward with the Queen Sewell Watershed Action Plan, engaging our community in sustainable practices like rain gardens is crucial,” town conservation agent Stephanie Fitch said. “This workshop not only educates but also empowers our residents to take active roles in preserving the health of our local environment.”