Description
The development of a green roof on the main education building of the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education adds a stormwater component to the Center’s education curriculum. The vegetation in the 2,215 square foot roof installation absorbs rainwater; excess roof runoff is channeled into a rain garden located on the ground below the green roof. This system will reduce the amount of runoff generated by the site.
A demonstration model roof planting has been installed at the ground level in front of the education building. This model, which uses the same plants and soils as the green roof, provides visitors an opportunity to view firsthand and learn about an innovative stormwater management BMP and to educate children and adults about stormwater runoff issues and solutions.
Rain Garden native vegetation planting includes: Switch Grass, New England Aster, Swamp Rose, Three-lobed Coneflower, Red Cedar, Joe-Pye Weed, Hibiscus, Ninebark, Giant Sunflower, and Lizard’s Tail.
Location
County: Philadelphia
Watershed: Wissahickon Creek
Partners
Cahill Associates
David Brothers Landscape Services
Roofscapes, Inc.
Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education
Cost
Total cost of $76,500 funded by The McLean Contributorship
Contact
Ashleigh Poff
The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education
8480 Hagy’s Mill Road
Philadelphia, PA 19128
215-482-7300 x139
apoff@schuylkillcenter.org