Descanso Gardens Rainwater Storage and Water Reclamation Project

under construction

Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge, California is undertaking a broad package of projects involving water reuse, fire preparedness, and habitat repair. The project includes an underground stormwater capture system that will hold about 1.5 million gallons and capture up to 21 million gallons of stormwater annually from a 256-acre drainage area. The reclaimed water will be used for irrigation, refilling the lake, supporting surrounding habitat, and firefighting. The initiative also includes restoration work around the garden's lake, circulation upgrades to enhance water quality and biodiversity, and a new Nature Discovery Garden with children's play and learning areas focused on native habitats and watersheds.