Rain Gardens Installed to Protect Rice Creek

This summer, four new curb-cut rain gardens were installed along Channel Road NE in Fridley as part of a street reconstruction project led by the City of Fridley, in partnership with Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) and the Anoka Conservation District (ACD). These gardens capture stormwater runoff from neighborhood streets before it flows into nearby Rice Creek, helping protect water quality and reduce localized flooding. RCWD awarded the City of Fridley $30,000 from our Water Quality Grant program to help cover a portion of the costs.

The project highlights how road improvements can be paired with green infrastructure to benefit both people and ecosystems.

How the Rain Gardens Work

The rain gardens collects stormwater (aka rain that falls on hard surfaces like roads and houses) through a curb cut, allowing it to soak into the ground where soil and native plants filter out and capture pollutants like sediment (dirt on road) and phosphorus (a nutrient that can cause toxic algae blooms in lakes).

A hydrodynamic separator (an underground chamber that removes sediment, oil, and trash from stormwater) was also installed downstream for additional treatment, capturing debris and sediment before water enters Rice Creek.

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Measurable Environmental Benefits

These rain gardens are expected to reduce stormwater runoff by over 57,000 cubic feet per year, reduce total suspended solids (which are particles like dirt that will float in the water and make it dirty) by 470 pounds per year, and reduce phosphorus by nearly 3 pounds annually.

While these may sound like small numbers, preventing just a few pounds of phosphorus and sediment can stop hundreds of pounds of algae growth, improving water clarity and supporting aquatic life downstream.

Homeowners Support Long-Term Success

While the City of Fridley managed construction and paid all local matching costs, the long-term care of the gardens will be handled by nearby homeowners. Each property owner has committed to maintaining the plants, weeding, and keeping the curb cuts clear so the rain gardens remain functional year after year. Maintenance is the key part of these rain gardens staying beautiful and functioning. These projects would not be possible or successful without these homeowners.

RCWD and ACD will continue to support the homeowners with guidance, educational materials, and check-ins as needed.

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Building on a History of Rain Garden Success

This project builds on Fridley’s history of successful rain garden installations during past street reconstructions. Fridley has successfully installed rain gardens similar to these, and they are now well-established, featuring colorful native wildflowers and strong community stewardship.

A Collaborative Model for Clean Water

These projects demonstrate the power of collaboration among cities, watershed districts, conservation agencies, and residents. By working together, we can implement practical, nature-based solutions that improve water quality and community resilience.