Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
A
B
B
A
Figures 14.32-a and 14.32-B
An example of water retention and storage for later use to irrigate urban gardens. Item A is
for water retention, and B is a flower and vegetable garden. Amersfoort, the Netherlands.
The extensive urban garden shown in photographs in Figures 14.32-A
and 14.32-B serves a second and important purpose as a water retention
strategy. The gardens are primarily planted with seasonal flowers, herbs,
and vegetables. The canal in the same picture adds interest as only a
water feature can in a dense urban setting. The area, which is essentially
a large basin or vessel, has been designed with a capacity for detaining
water during heavy storms. Eventually the water is absorbed in the soil
or evaporates. Some of the water stored in the concrete canal is used
to supplement irrigation of adjacent planting. Item A in figure 14.32-B is
the same canal as in Figure 14.32-A. The
area marked B shows the variety of plants
including perennials and herbs to add
visual interest at the same time can detain
water overflow from the canal during
heavy rains.
A dry stream was created in the
dense urban commercial area shown in
Figure 14.33. When not containing water,
the dry streambed can serve a variety of
creative functions such as a skateboarding
park or a site for programmed uses and
events hosted by the city or merchants.
Figure 14.33
A dry stream channel in Almere, the
Netherlands
