Caw Caw Interpretive Center's Rain Garden...

Caw Caw Interpretive Center, Clemson Extension, and Coastal Master Naturalists teamed up to utilize a grant thanks to the South Carolina Native Plant Society Lowcountry Chapter Grants Program. This grant went towards revitalization of the 100 square foot native plant rain garden at Caw Caw Interpretive Center. The rain garden serves to manage storm water runoff, enhance biodiversity and educate visitors about the importance of native plants in ecosystem resilience.

Kristina Wheeler collaborated with Samantha Porzelt of Clemson Extension on this project. Samantha, the Water Resources Agent for Charleston County, also coordinates Clemson's Master Rain Gardener program. The garden's new excavated design (thanks to Park Manager Dennis Burgart) will be better to capture water runoff from the picnic shelter's roof, funneling it through gutters into a rain barrel, and then directing it into the garden.

Placing the rain barrel

The rain garden is filled with new native plants provided by Sharleen Johnson of Native Plants to the People LLC. Sharleen carefully selected plants that are well-suited to this unique environment that is pretty shaded and frequently visited by large ungulates. These new plants will offer nectar, pollen, and seeds, providing food for native butterflies, insects, birds, and other wildlife.

Sharleen Johnson, owner of Native Plants to the People, LLC

Several wonderful Master Naturalist garden volunteers helped plant on this day and will continue to assist with the garden's maintenance and monitoring. Like any garden, it is essential to implement a thoughtful plan for long-term success. This project is a great collaboration among individuals and organizations, and this garden will offer an educational experience that will make lasting impacts on guests of the park.