Purpose
Ball State University students are developing a community outreach program for the Jake's Creek residential area of the Muncie Sanitary District (MSD) to address stormwater reduction. The team is looking at the continuing problem of sewer overflow after significant rainfalls, its consequences, and how residents can reduce the amount of stormwater runoff on their property. The team's goal is to create a Water Conservation Fair Day for the residents to educate them on the benefits of rain barrels, rain gardens, and other flood reduction options.

Action
The team researched the MSD's information on which houses had downspouts connected to city sewer pipes and focused on ways to encourage those homeowners to participate in water conservation procedures. We looked at total rainfall amounts coming off the houses, and how they contribute to flooding in the neighborhood. We also studied the negative health and environmental effects that occur during flooding of CSOs (combined sewer overflows). We worked with two natural resources classes to gather information, paint rain barrels, and produce a Water Conservation Fair that would give the residents a variety of options for reducing their stormwater runoff.

Results
The team created a program of events and information for the residents to take home from the April 5 fair. We designed mini-rain gardens and created lists of the plants so the residents could re-create the design at home. We also held a rain barrel workshop to teach residents how to install and use a rain barrel. We spent several days in the neighborhood assisting residents with installation and answered questions about downspout disconnections.

The residents of Jake's Creek now have access to rain barrels, rain garden plants and designs, plumber contact information, and literature to assist them in reducing the stormwater runoff from their property.

Faculty Mentor
Jennifer Bott, Miller College of Business

Partner
Muncie Sanitary District

Students
Holly A. Chaille; Brandy Fleming; Kamille Jones; Dante Kobek; Jennifer Shipe; Brittani Smith; Brooke Toney; Dana Wollet; Felicia Yates