USS Partners with E3 Camp to Grow More Than Rain Gardens
Urban Sustainability Solutions was excited to partner with seven teachers and their students from Carrboro-based E3(Empowering Excellence thru Exploration) Camp, led by Anissa McLendon, for a special session of our Growing More Than Rain Gardens program.
Throughout the program, students explored the connections between stormwater, water quality, and green infrastructure through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on field experiences. One highlight was a visit to the Carrboro Fire Department, where students observed a rain garden installation in progress and learned from Stormwater Specialist Heather Holley how these practices help capture runoff and protect local waterways.
During their field day, students were divided into two teams and challenged to complete a real-world drainage assessment for a Carrboro homeowner. Each group measured the home's impervious surfaces, including the roof, driveway, and walkways, and used those measurements to calculate the dimensions of a potential rain garden for the front yard. Both teams arrived at the same results and then worked together to lay out the proposed garden using professional tools such as a laser level, tape measures, stakes, and rope.
After completing the design activity, the group visited Cedar Rock Apartments, a previous USS project site. There, students helped enhance an existing bioretention cell by installing new native plants near the end of the parking lot. This hands-on work provided students with valuable experience maintaining green stormwater infrastructure while contributing to the health and beauty of the site.
The day concluded with lunch at Wilson Park, followed by a graduation celebration recognizing the students' hard work and accomplishments. Each participant earned $220 for successfully completing the program and demonstrating their commitment to learning about environmental stewardship and community improvement.
We are grateful for the opportunity to work with the incredible teachers and students of the E3 Camp and appreciate the leadership of Anissa McLendon in making this partnership possible. We look forward to collaborating again in the future and continuing to empower young people through hands-on environmental education.
