The programme involves building a system of small channels taking rainwater from drainpipes to small canals which empty into slightly larger canals and on into a system of controlled flooding areas and holding ponds. The ponds and canals are a real asset to Augustenborg's urban landscape. Children can skate or swim there in different seasons. The special canal design including small waterfalls which create a movement in the water to sweep away particles and keep maintenance of the system to a minimum. This clearly impressed the young students.
Green roofs are another part of the rainwater management programme.
Roofs are planted or covered with lightweight prefabricated mats, so that the rainwater run-off is minimised. Other environmental benefits are to encourage biodiversity, protect the roofs from ultraviolet and frost damage. The green roof costs 400 crowns per square metre, but it is worth the money. The participants in this workshop enjoyed it as it showed them the most advanced thinking in treating rainwater. In most countries, people don't get beyond putting up drainpipes and there is no coordinated rainwater collecting system.