At Delaware Botanic Gardens at Pepper Creek, a dry creek bed serves as a green technology best management practices project for handling excess stormwater runoff. Runoff from the flat roof of the Creek restrooms filters and drains without causing soil erosion, then is redirected for processing before being released to freshwater and saltwater reservoirs, here the intermittent vernal pools at the base of the woodland slope and Pepper Creek. The design uses stones and earth of different sizes and shapes to slow the water and let runoff soak into the soil as it moves downhill through a filtering structure. Two flat circular turnout pools provide places for water to settle during heavy downpours before passing under the vernal pool. Native shade-loving plants line the creek to mimic natural streams, while native ferns, grasses, and shrubs are planted across the slopes and in the rain garden. At the base of the slope, vegetation and permeable soil improve water quality by filtering pollutants through the soil and root systems. Dry creek beds and rain gardens serve as practical tools that homeowners can install to manage drainage, reduce erosion and flooding, and improve water quality.