A changing climate means that we can expect more extreme precipitation events.
In addition to being inconvenient, these events can lead to compromised watershed health and increased urban flooding. Although these extreme weather events can seem overwhelming, there are ways for individuals to take action and change how they deal with rain.
Nature can help us manage flooding. Check out the resources below to learn how to harvest rainwater, plant native plants, and more.
Resource Guides

Guide: Rain Barrels
When combined with your neighbors’ efforts, disconnecting your downspout and installing a rain barrel reduces the risk of basement flooding in your area. Click the button below to download your own printable brochure.

Guide: Native Plants
Native plants require less irrigation and actually help reduce stormwater runoff. Click the button below to download your own printable brochure.

Guide: Trees
Trees help remove pollution from the air and help prevent flooding by managing stormwater. Click the button below to download your own printable brochure.

Guide: Compost
Composting at home helps save water by helping the soil hold moisture and reduce runoff. Click the button below to download your own printable brochure.
Partner Resources
Across the country, community leaders, public works staff, and residents are working together to create residences and businesses that are secure in the face of severe weather events. RainReady helps people manage flooding and drought in a time of climate change.
Since 1979, Friends of the Chicago River has been working to improve the health of the Chicago River system for the benefit of people and wildlife and by doing so, has laid the foundation for the river to be a beautiful, continuous, easily accessible corridor of open space in the Chicago region.