Nature-based Solutions in Serbia: Implementation of Rain Gardens in the Suburban Community Kać

Abstract

In recent years, the concept of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) is being accepted as an integrated approach that provides multiple ecosystem services. Serbia is among many European countries with a growing interest for the implementation of the NbS. This paper presents the results of assessment of two rain gardens (RGs) taken as case studies, implemented as some of the rst examples of NbS. The research methodology is based on evaluation of the hydrologic effectiveness through continuous visual inspection during the period after RGs construction in the rst year, second and third year after RGs establishment. Visual inspection involved observations of the basic functions of RGs i.e. ow reduction during storm events, presence of standing water or over ows, time of in ltration, vegetation health and establishment. Mentioned items were monitored in order to understand the performances and test the functionality of RGs due to their further implementation. Findings based on visual assessment showed that: a) both RGs in ltrate runoff during rain and snow events with no presence of standing water after 24 hours and b) rain gardens can reduce peak ows and total ow volume in a short period of time for rainfall depths that are connected with different return periods and ood frequency. The RGs also showed excellent plant growth rate and rapid plant establishment within environmental conditions in the RGs. This study highlights overall good adaptation of RGs under local soil and typical continental climate and contributes to limited research about performances of RGs as NbS in Serbian practice.

The Value of Vegetation in Nature-Based Solutions: Roles, Challenges, and Utilization in Managing Different Environmental and Climate-Related Problems

“…Another study investigated vegetation performance, growth, and health under rainy garden conditions [122]. Juncus effusus L. (fam.…”