ONLINE — Penn State Extension will offer a five-part webinar series in February and March focused on reducing stormwater around the home. The Residential Stormwater Solutions series is aimed at anyone who owns, rents or manages residential property and anyone interested in learning more about small-scale stormwater best management practices. 

“Watershed Friendly Recommendations and Certification” takes place from noon to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, February 25. 

Participants will learn how resources from the Watershed-Friendly Property Certification and Stormwater Basics Series can assist residents in managing stormwater and protecting water resources on their property. The session will cover: 

Where stormwater originates on the property and where it flows. 

How stormwater pollutes local streams and rivers. 

Resources and assistance Penn State Extension offers to help residents manage stormwater. 

How to get Watershed-Friendly Certification for a property. 

The next session, “The Power of Rain Gardens,” takes place from noon to 1 p.m. on Thursday, February 27. 

Rain gardens are a stormwater best management practice designed as shallow depressions that collect, absorb and filter stormwater. A rain garden must be designed and installed with careful consideration, or more problems can arise. Presenters will discuss: 

How rain gardens work. 

Considerations when deciding where to locate a rain garden. 

Rain garden design, installation and maintenance tips. 

How to select the best native plants for a rain garden.