Springhouse Middle School students recently converted a small courtyard at their school into an outdoor learning re-source project, a rain garden a shallow depression planted with deep-rooted native plants and grasses.

Rain gardens are placed near a runoff source, such as a downspout, driveway or sump pump to capture rainwater runoff and stop the water from reaching the sewer system.

The Lehigh County Conservation District, in partnership with the school district, South Whitehall Township, and Keystone Consulting Engineers Inc. received a $1,500 grant from Penn State University, said Laura Hopek, watershed specialist with the Lehigh County Conservation District.

"The rain garden will help control stormwater runoff from the roof and sidewalks, while serving as a living laboratory for students," Hopek said. "This project will allow students to enjoy the environmental and educational benefits it provides, including studying local wildlife, birds, bees, and beneficial insects that will be attracted to the native shrubs and flowers that will be planted.".

The converted courtyard will make a meaningful connection between school, the community and local environmental issues for the students, without leaving school property, she explained.

Project partners thank local sponsors including Upper Macungie Township, Lehigh Valley Home and Garden Center, Tall Timbers Nursery, Dan Schantz Greenhouse, Best Line Equipment and 4 Seasons Nursery, Hopek said.