Rainwater Collection
The City Center Market utilizes a 50-gallon rain barrel, made from 100% recycled materials, to efficiently collect and store water for their cultural garden. This eco-conscious barrel highlights their dedication to sustainability and plays a vital role in nurturing the garden’s lush growth. By capturing rainwater, they are not only enhancing their garden beds but also promoting inventive approaches to urban water conservation.
Getting Started
Rainwater harvesting systems vary in size and complexity. Rain barrels, usually under 100 gallons, are simpler to install and cost less than larger cisterns, which typically exceed 100 gallons but offer more functionality. To choose the right size, calculate your water generation and usage needs. Approximately 0.6 gallons can be collected per square foot of roof area for every inch of rainfall. For example, a 1,000 sq. ft. roof yields over 600 gallons from one inch of rainfall.
Benefits of Rainwater Collection
Rainwater collection systems have many benefits including:
- Water Conservation: Decreases the demand on groundwater and municipal water supplies.
- Water Quality: Helps reduce storm water runoff and associated downstream pollution.
- Flood & erosion control: Assists with management of water in problem areas in the yard.
- Economics: Potential cost savings on water bill as less municipal water is needed for irrigation.
Safety First
To safely collect rainwater, follow these steps:
- Follow manufacturer’s setup guidelines for rainwater harvesting systems.
- Ensure stability of a 55-gallon rain barrel on a level surface (weighs over 450 lbs. when full).
- Use harvested rainwater for non-drinking purposes like watering plants and washing equipment.
- Install a proper filtration system for potable water use.
- Secure barrel lids to prevent unauthorized access and use screens to keep mosquitoes out.