As we settle into rainy season in Oregon, consider the wealth of water that falls
on our heads all through the fall and winter. Instead of sighing when the skies turn
grey, try harvesting some of that rain for future use in your household and yard. Rain
has been collected by human societies for centuries, and in a time where many strains
are put on municipal water sources, saving rain water can be a good way to help lessen
some of the burden. And rainwater is naturally soft water that is devoid of minerals,
chlorine, fluoride, and other chemicals, so plants thrive on it (naturally!).
The average rainfall of one inch during 24 hours can produce more than 700 gallons
of water running off the roof of a typical house! Much of this water runs onto surfaces
where it cannot be absorbed–like concrete, asphalt, and compacted soil. As it runs
into storm drains, the water collects contaminants and runs into nearby water sources
without being treated, where it can pollute local waterways.
To store this storm water and put it to future use, consider implementing a rain
barrel near your home. A rain barrel is a container that collects and stores rainwater
from downspouts and rooftops for future use watering lawns and gardens (it is estimated
that nearly 40 percent of household water use in summer months goes to lawn and garden
maintenance). Generally, a rain barrel is made from a 55 gallon drum, a garden hose,
couplings, a screen gate to remove debris and keep insects out and other materials found
at local hardware stores. Rain barrels can be constructed in a number of ways, from numerous
materials. They can also be bought ready-made from various companies. They are estimated
to save homeowners an average of 1300 gallons of water during the peak summer months–
all for only the cost of a barrel!
For more information on building and using rain barrels, visit these websites:
Sources:
www.marc.org, www.epa.org
