As part of the Fall 2026 Growing More Than Rain Gardens cohort, 26 apprentices from South Garner High School participated in a field day with site visits and hands-on activities.
The group toured several past Urban Sustainability Solutions project sites in Raleigh, learning how green infrastructure practices are helping address stormwater challenges in local communities. Apprentices then visited the Walnut Creek Wetland Center, where Dori Rathmell (Raleigh Stormwater Environmental Educator) led the group as they searched for and identified macroinvertebrates, or "good water bugs," to assess the health of the creek and better understand the connection between stormwater runoff and water quality.
Apprentices also measured the center's front rain garden as part of a lesson on calculating slope and evaluating site conditions. By determining whether the garden met recommended design criteria, they gained firsthand experience with one of the key factors that contributes to a successful rain garden.
We had a great time working with this year's South Garner cohort and their dedicated teacher team. We look forward to continuing our partnership with South Garner High School and welcoming a new group of apprentices into Growing More Than Rain Gardens next year!
