Our community conservation team collaborated with the enthusiastic students and staff of John B. Wright Elementary in midtown Tucson to help transform their school grounds with rain gardens. The project centered on constructing rainwater harvesting basins at the school, demonstrating a practical, eco-friendly approach to grow shade trees and native landscaping. The effort cools the school grounds for children, and also integrates a functional example of sustainable water management that students interact with daily.
In May, WMG's community conservation team spearheaded the project, led by Joaquin Murrieta and Luis Salgado. Alongside them were twelve 5th grade students (ages 11-12), their families, teachers, and neighborhood volunteers to transform the school grounds. Many of the students expressed that this was their first time planting trees and it is more fun doing work with friends. The youngest participant was 20 months old, and she did her share of moving mulch and watering the new planted trees.
The principal of John B. Wright, Brenda Encinas, was thrilled to have strong neighborhood support and for WMG to teach and install the rain gardens as it has been a five year process. Encinas shared, “Everyone is welcome to come by anytime to see the rain garden. We hope the whole community will love it and we know the students will love it”.
The hands-on nature of the workshop allowed students and volunteers to learn about soil science, native plant species, and passive rainwater harvesting systems to foster a deeper connection to their environment. By actively participating in the construction, students gained practical experience and an understanding of how their actions can positively impact their community's water resources.
The basins are designed to align with the principles of hydro-local, a concept WMG teaches emphasizing the use of local water sources for local needs. This approach reduces reliance on external water supplies, such as using the Colorado River and groundwater pumping and promotes resilience in the face of climate variability. Integrating hydro-local principles into the school environment helps students appreciate the value of conserving and managing water resources sustainably.
WMG’s Rain Garden program, previously known as "BYOB" (Build Your Own Basin) helps people build basins and conserve water through hands-on learning. By engaging with schools, WMG’s community conservation team aims to inspire the next generation to be proactive in water conservation and environmental protection. The success of the John B. Wright Elementary School project demonstrates by embracing hydro-local practices, we are not only improving our environment but also strengthening our community.