What is Rainwater Collection?    

  
                                  

  

     From a very simplified approach, rainfall is gathered from a collection area (generally a roof) into a storage unit and used for a nonpotable or potable purpose.  Rainwater collection systems range from simple barrels catching rain under a dripping roof to fully automated systems collecting tens of thousands of gallons of rainwater via gutters, piping and pumps.     A nonpotable rainwater collection system includes uses such as yard irrigation, gardening, water for livestock, and commercial or industrial usage.  A potable household system requires additional filtration and treatment for uses such as drinking, clothes and dish washing, toilets and showers.

     With wells going dry, groundwater quality decreasing and overall water usage rising, rainwater harvesting is becoming one of the fastest growing alternatives available for meeting fresh water demands.  People are recognizing the benefits of rainwater collection and as a result rainwater harvesting is seeing a resurgence in popularity.