Fresh water is one of the most precious resources in the world (next to presumptuous bloggers). This is especially true when you consider the fact that it is estimated that only about 1 percent our fresh water is usable to humans on this pale blue dot we call home. One percent on a global scale might be huge, but it begs the question, "How do we sustain a resource that is so precious to our very survival?"

The way our infrastructures are built, we're not doing a very good job of keeping the planet contaminant free. Just look at these two prevalent human structures that are deleterious to our fresh water supplies by contributing pollutions to our rivers and streams:

• Rooftops
• Parking lots

The runoff from these structures can contribute contamination such as oil or road salt on its way to nearby water sources. 

While you may not be able to save the world in your backyard, you can contribute to the promotion of water conservation by planting a rain garden. 

Generally speaking, rain gardens are collections of plants used to trap water with their roots before it reaches a nearby water source. Some benefits of planting a rain garden include:

• Helping local water supplies filter out pollutants
• Aiding in water conservation by holding onto water
• Providing habitat and food for birds, insects and small mammals
• Beautifying your backyard landscape

For more information on rain gardens: