Exhibition Rain Garden at Kellogg Lake Park



Rain Garden ready  for plantings

City of Carthage (Parks & Recreation Department), Jasper County (Health Department), Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Missouri Department of Conservation, University of Missouri Extension and Missouri Master Gardeners have developed an Exhibition Rain Garden for the City of Carthage and Kellogg Lake Park visitors. The Rain Garden is part of the Carthage-Spring River Watershed 319 Grant project.





Preparing the natural rock edging/weed barrier

Rain Gardens collect storm water like rain barrels, but the water is absorbed into the ground. They reduce storm water runoff, reduce erosion and filet out pollutants. They also create an attractive landscape and natural habitat.








Site excavated, boulders in place and topsoil amended 

The Rain Garden in the Kellogg Lake Park is designed to inspire, educate and teach important Best Management Practices in the Spring River Watershed. It is an exhibition garden for residents and guests alike. Missouri Native plants are used that are adapted for Missouri weather and climate. Their deep root systems facilitate the absorption of large amounts of storm water.




Rain Garden is backdrop for Outdoor Educational Classroom

The Exhibition Rain Garden site was selected and is located adjacent to the Carthage Public School's Outdoor Educational Classroom. Signage describes the design elements and  selections for the all Missouri Native plants. Visitors can admire and study the numerous plant species for planning their own Rain Garden.