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and suburban areas is covered with impervious surfaces including streets, parking lots and large roofs. With less surface area to absorb excess water, the extra water — along with any pollutants — flows into nearby lakes, streams and rivers. Convincing homeowners to invest in landscape projects spe- cifically designed to manage stormwater can be challenging. "The idea of water conservation has not truly resonated with hom- eowners yet because the perception is that water is unlimited," said Modrow. Unfortunately, many people associate water conservation with a "natural" or weedy look. However, "water conservation can be incorporated into any style landscape or architecture," he said. And the end result can be beautiful. Management options Foundation plantings are the first option homeowners are willing to consider. When planted properly, trees and shrubs are an effective method for limiting runoff. "Foundation plantings are a good place to start, but only a small piece of a larger plan," said Modrow. "The focus needs to expand and encompass the property border — plant- ing along the perimeter helps slow down any runoff." Native plants, grasses, perennials and trees indigenous to a region are the next step to creating a landscape designed to miti- gate stormwater runoff. Native plants have evolved to survive in local conditions with minimal care. The plants grow long roots that are ideal for filtering excess water, removing pollutants before returning water to the ground. The longer root structure also increases the plant's ability to tolerate drought. Rain gardens are another option. Rain gardens are 200- to 300-square-foot depressions in the ground filled with native plants. Excess water on the property is directed to the rain garden where it sits for a day or two while the plants slowly soak in the water, filter it, and return it to underground water sources. Homeowners unwilling to trade in manicured lawns and lush gardens can implement water-harvesting practices that address stormwater runoff, provide a water source for maintaining thirsty landscapes, and limit the amount of municipal water used to care for the high-maintenance plantings. A simple system such as a rain barrel or cistern can be used to capture and store runoff for later use. Rain barrels are typically placed at the end of a downspout. A hose or spigot is built into the barrel for easy use. Depending on the size of the landscape and the amount of water needed, a more elaborate subsurface collection system may be necessary to store enough water to care for the turfgrass and gardens. Check with local and state officials regarding larger rain harvesting systems as regulations vary. Permeable paving systems are an alternative for areas that cannot be landscaped. Driveways, sidewalks and even patio areas can be designed with permeable paving systems. For example, permeable interlocking concrete pavement is comprised of a layer of concrete pavers separated by joints filled with small stones. The spacers built into the pavers allow water to flow through the joints Water Management 20 Landscape and Irrigation September 2014 www.landscapeirrigation.com Plants capture excess water from an impervious area and slowly filter the water back into the soil.