
PCOTW Treatment Train Rain Garden
City
Shoreview, Minnesota
Completion Date
2025
Cost
$178,259
Phase
Complete
Benefitted Water Body
Lake Josephine
Funding Sources
Presbyterian Church of the Way- Shoreview, RCWD
Partners
Presbyterian Church of the Way- Shoreview, Ramsey County Soil and Water District, RCWD
Stormwater from the Presbyterian Church of the Way’s large parking lot, roof, and surrounding grounds use to flow untreated into the city storm sewer system and eventually to Lake Josephine. Now, it flows into a series of multi-raingardens to capture and treat that runoff before it reaches the lake, helping keep local water cleaner and healthier.

The new raingardens filter out pollutants, infiltrate water back into the ground, and restore native habitat that supports pollinators and wildlife. By slowing down and soaking up water where it falls, the gardens will prevent erosion, reduce flooding risk, and green the church campus with native plants.
Water Quality Impact
The project will treat runoff from approximately 143,835 square feet (3.3 acres) of drainage area. It is estimated to reduce annual runoff by 118,426 cubic feet, total suspended solids (sediment in water) by 403 pounds, and total phosphorus by 2.2 pounds.
The church community is also engaged in the effort. Members have been involved in planning and learning about native plants and water stewardship. The raingardens will serve as an ongoing teaching tool for both church members and visitors, inspiring similar efforts at homes, schools, and other community space.
An educational sign designed by RCWD was installed next to project near sidewalk for people walking by to view.
The Ramsey County Parks & Recreation Soil and Water Conservation provided design support.
RCWD awarded $20,000 in funding through its Water Quality Grant Program.
Video of PCOTW’s Rain Garden
Videos showing how stormwater is running off the church’s parking lot and into the rain garden.
To Learn More About This Project:
