Why People Collect Rainwater: Benefits and Challenges

As long as something falls on your property, it technically belongs to you. While it's simple to return a ball or allow access into your yard, rainwater gets a bit more complicated. In some regions, collecting rainwater may be subject to local regulations, which can vary widely based on health concerns, mosquito breeding grounds, and the potential for contamination.

Legal Considerations

Some states have laws explicitly prohibiting or limiting the collection of rainwater. For instance, certain councils may ban the practice due to the risk of mosquito breeding in rainwater collection tanks. Health concerns, such as the possibility of waterborne illnesses from unclean collection tanks, also play a significant role in such regulations. Additionally, rainwater can carry pollutants from the air, such as emissions from vehicles, or contaminants from surfaces like bird droppings, making it unsuitable for drinking unless properly treated.

Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting

Much of the non-drinking water used in households can be supplemented by rainwater harvesting. Nearly everything from flushing toilets, washing cars, and watering plants can benefit from this practice. The amount of water that can be collected is determined by the total square footage of your home and any attached structures, as well as the effectiveness of your gutters in directing rainwater to your collection tanks.

Converting this rainwater into usable water can be as simple as storing it in containers and elevating them to take advantage of gravity, or using a pump for irrigation or other purposes. The use of rainwater is a centuries-old technique that has proven to be practical and sustainable.

Greywater Systems

Greywater systems collect water from shower and sink drains, which contains no "blackwater." This greywater can be used for non-potable purposes such as gardening, toilet flushing, and washing clothes, reducing the strain on municipal water supplies and helping to conserve water resources.

Every cubic foot of water saved through rainwater harvesting or greywater systems translates to water not only saved but also not needing to be treated in municipal water treatment facilities. This is particularly relevant in regions facing water scarcity, such as drought-stricken areas. For example, some regions may become more arid due to desertification, while the overuse of aquifers can lead to dangerously low groundwater levels.

Practical Applications in Water Conservation

In areas prone to drought, installing rainwater harvesting systems can be a strategic move. For instance, residing in a drought-stricken region, I was fortunate to install a 750-gallon rainwater storage system capturing runoff from my roof. This system provides several advantages:

Water becomes available for plant and tree care during dry periods, ensuring their health and survival. Emergency water can be used during shortages, or, if properly filtered, could be used within the home. A portion of the rainwater can be allowed to infiltrate the ground, enhancing groundwater and aquifer levels. Swales can be used to direct gutter water into the ground, promoting natural filtration and recharge.

Rainwater harvesting is not only beneficial from a sustainability standpoint, but it also offers practical benefits such as cost savings on water bills and enhanced environmental protection.

Conclusion

Collecting rainwater is a viable practice that offers numerous benefits, including cost savings, environmental sustainability, and resilience in times of water scarcity. Whether you live in a region with stringent regulations or drought-prone areas, understanding the nuances of rainwater harvesting can be a game-changer for your water management strategy.