FFL™ Landscape Advisor's Manual - Orange County Extension ...

CHECKLIST: REDUCE STORMWATER RUNOFF
Porous surfaces are used for
walkways, patios, and driveways.
Rainwater is collected in a
rain barrel or cistern and
used to water plants.
(6 points) (p. 44)
Partial Points Available:
6 Pts. – All surfaces are made of porous materials
4 Pts. – Most surfaces are made of porous materials
2 Pts. – Some surfaces are made of porous materials
Permeable paver drive with coquina rock parking area
(6 points) (p. 44)
Partial Points Available:
6 Pts. – Clients have a rain barrel or cistern
AND they actively use it
3 Pts. – Clients have a rain barrel or cistern
but do not currently use it
These materials allow rainwater to seep into
the ground, recharging groundwater, filtering
pollutants, and reducing the amount of runoff from
the yard. In some cases, these porous materials may
even cost less to install than concrete or asphalt.
Rain Barrel.
Rain barrels and cisterns can capture a significant
amount of water and can have a tangible effect on
water bills. A rain barrel should be made mosquitoproof
with a tight-fitting lid and mesh screen, and
can be painted or hidden by foliage or a trellis to
make it more attractive.
Cisterns also catch rain but can hold hundreds or
thousands of gallons and require more engineering
than rain barrels. Remind clients that their
community or county may require a permit for a
cistern.
A Florida-Friendly Landscaping Publication 33