About Rainwater Harvesting
Lately there has been growing interest in rainwater catchment systems,which capture and retain rainwater to be used for a variety of purposes—anything except water for cooking and drinking. Catchment systems can also be used to manage unwanted surface water and eliminate soggy areas by capturing the excess water and moving it underground, out of sight.
Basically, rain is captured on a surface, such as the roof of a building, and then directed into a storage container by way of gutters and downspouts. Filters are incorporated to remove debris and large particles such as leaves. Storage containers can be above ground and come in a variety of forms(old pickle barrels, modern plastic hollow fences, plastic barrels disguised as planters), or can be constructed below ground, hidden from view (under driveways, lawns,and decks). Configurations are endless and the only constraints are local laws and cost.
The water is pumped out of the storage container to be used for watering the lawn, filling the swimming pool and water features,washing the car, deck, and windows, and possibly for geothermal heating/cooling systems.
Why pay for treated drinking water for these tasks when the water itself is free for the taking?
Rain water is naturally soft—no white mineral spots on plants or windows or car paint jobs. And you don’t have to rely on the water district for that water.
For more information about rainwater harvesting, contact:
Bob Mills
WaterWise Irrigation Maintenance
Mobile: 253-332-0586
Fax: 253-299-6183
