What is a rain garden designed to do?

A rain garden is specifically designed to absorb rainwater runoff from impervious surfaces such as roofs, driveways, and streets. By utilizing plants that thrive in moist conditions, rain gardens help to capture and retain stormwater, allowing it to infiltrate the ground. This process not only reduces flooding and erosion but also helps to filter pollutants from the water before it enters the groundwater supply or nearby waterways. The design typically features depressions that collect the runoff, allowing plants and soil to work together to manage excess water effectively.

While enhancing soil fertility could be a secondary benefit of the organic materials used in a rain garden, that is not its primary purpose. Similarly, growing fruits and vegetables or providing a recreational area is not the focus of a rain garden; these functions are associated with different landscaping designs and objectives. Thus, the correct answer identifies the main intent behind the establishment of a rain garden.