Catch the Rain program is helping homeowners find ways to prevent stormwater on their properties from entering the White Clay Creek watershed, writes Zoë Read for the WHYY. 

In addition to threatening properties, stormwater runoff can pollute waterways that give residents their drinking water and serve as a habitat and a water source for local fish and wildlife. 

According to Shane Morgan, who runs the Catch the Rain program, most of the pollution that finds its way into creeks is from development, driveways, roofs, and even lawns. 

“When rain hits the ground and moves across the landscape, it carries everything with it to the creek — all pollutants,” she said. “Whereas the soil, and the microbes that live in the soil, and the plants that grow in these garden areas can help break down some of them.” 

White Clay watershed residents can apply for the program, which offers a 50/50 cost share for the work along with a rebate after completion. 

Catch the Rain program was created by the White Clay Wild and Scenic Program and Brandywine Conservancy because stormwater brings the most pollution to White Clay Creek and 88 percent of land in the watershed is privately owned. 

Read more about the Catch the Rain program at White Clay watershed in the WHYY. 

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