Over the next decade, spring rains in Franklin County, OH are expected to grow in frequency and volume—as much as 30-percent. This will produce more stormwater runoff and flooding, impacting local communities. As the population of Central Ohio surges and development expands, the region will need more infrastructure that protects communities from these increased flood risks.
Urban green infrastructure—trees and rain gardens—reduce stormwater runoff and protect water quality by capturing rain where it falls, keeping waterways healthy and safe. Investment in green infrastructure provides additional benefits, including wildlife habitat, improved home values, and reduced noise pollution.
The Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District (FSWCD) offers incentives for businesses, developers, and homeowners to adopt green infrastructure, as well as education and technical assistance to landowners, local community groups, and municipalities. Earth Economics supported FSWCD with a valuation of co-benefits created by rain gardens and rain barrels. In Franklin County, each acre of rain garden provides as much as $74,000 in co-benefits each year. Since 2015, FSWCD’s Community Backyards program has provided nearly 2,000 rain barrels to Columbus residents, helping homeowners save at least $12,000 while supporting stormwater management, groundwater infiltration, lower water and sewage fees, and reduced emissions.
