Lithohydrology is the use of dry-laid stones and stone features to harvest rainwater from impermeable surfaces (including hardscaped paths and driveways, roofs, and other areas). The water is directed back onto the property where it waters trees and replenishes the groundwater table. Lithohydrology allows us to maintain the health of trees and larger shrubs in times of drought, reduces our water bill, and provides benefits to the larger ecosystem around us by supporting the health of the water cycle in our region.
Taught by Andrea Hurd of Mariposa Gardening & Design Cooperative, Inc. In this workshop, you will learn some of Mariposa’s innovative water harvesting methods, which use stone to capture and store water on the landscape. From pictures to discussion, we will tackle the basics of this important part of building gardens that keep natural systems in mind. As a member of The Stone Foundation, an international stonemason’s trade association, Andrea has gained training in the art of dry-stacked stone building in England, Scotland, Mallorca, and Cambodia. Andrea’s garden designs feature her love for nature, her artistic eye, as well as her love for well-built dry-stacked stonework.
