The benefits of rainwater harvesting
As more people recognize the benefits of sustainable landscaping, rainwater harvesting — one of the underlying principles of sustainable landscape design — is coming into its own.
Rain is a free resource, and collecting and storing it in rain barrels and holding tanks for future use in the home and landscape makes perfect sense.
How can you benefit from rainwater harvesting?
Better for plants
The stormwater runoff from your roof is usually slightly acidic, with a pH of about 5.7, and free from chemicals like fluorine and chlorine.
Most plants thrive in soils with a pH of from 5.5 to 7.0, so the natural acidity inherent in rainfall makes for happier plants.
Also, rainfall is generally warmer than municipal water, so it is less apt to stress young plants.
Using a resource
Rain barrels, cisterns and holding tanks are the first link in the stormwater chain. Storing the water that comes from your roof converts a certain volume into a valuable resource.
Without harvesting, excess runoff will flow overland, carrying pollutants and contributing to erosion and flooding problems downstream.
Collecting excess rainwater can create a great use for something that would otherwise go to waste.
Save money
Homeowners who harvest their rainwater and use it to water their gardens and wash their cars report a savings on their water bills of 30 to 40 percent.
And as water rates continue to climb in many municipalities, the savings will become even more important to many people's budgets.
Fewer restrictions
Nationwide droughts have forced many states to implement water use restrictions during the months your landscape needs water the most.
Harvesting and storing your rainwater gives you an alternative supply independent of public sources, letting you keep your landscape healthy and green even in the driest months.
A well-designed water harvesting system can save you money on utility bills, limit your impact and your dependency on public water sources and contribute to a healthy, water-wise landscape.
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