GMTRG: Durham Spring 2026 Part 2

Basic Rain Garden Group with Demetrius Thompson of Bullcity Landscaping

Urban Sustainability Solutions is proud to continue building momentum in Durham through another round of training programs in partnership with Northern High School instructors. These experiences gave students the opportunity to apply their skills across both community-based and campus-focused projects.

The basic training group worked on a residential property that had previously been identified during our collaboration with the Partnership for Healthy Homes. With site preparation led by contractor Demetrius Thompson of Bullcity Landscaping, who excavated the area and guided the construction process, students played a key role in bringing the project to life.

They worked together to check and refine the grading of the rain garden base, build up the berm for proper water retention, and plant and mulch the garden. Through this process, students gained hands-on experience in installation techniques and a deeper understanding of how properly designed rain gardens can reduce runoff and improve site conditions for homeowners.

Advanced Rain Garden Group at Northern High School

Meanwhile, the advanced student group focused their efforts on campus at Northern High School, working alongside instructor Rachel Owens. There, they designed and installed a small rain garden strategically placed to reduce stormwater runoff entering a nearby storm drain. This project allowed advanced students to take greater ownership of the design-build process while directly improving their school environment.

Together, these projects highlight the strength of combining hands-on training, community engagement, and site-specific problem solving. From residential properties to school campuses, Northern High School students are helping implement practical solutions that contribute to healthier, more resilient communities across Durham.