This document provides guidance on harvesting rainwater for landscape use. It discusses the components of a rainwater harvesting system, including the water supply (rainfall), plant water demands, and the system to move water. Simple systems can direct roof runoff to landscaped areas using gutters, downspouts and berms. Proper plant selection and constructing basins and swales can maximize water storage and minimize erosion. Regular maintenance, like cleaning gutters and basins, is important.
Waterfall, patricia h. (universidad de arizona) harvesting rainwaterPlan Huerta
This document provides guidance on harvesting rainwater for landscape use. It discusses the components of a rainwater harvesting system, including the water supply (rainfall), plant water demands, and the system to move water. Simple systems can direct roof runoff to landscaped areas using gutters, downspouts and berms. Proper plant selection and constructing basins and swales can maximize water storage and direct runoff. Regular maintenance is needed to keep the system functioning well.
Albuquerque, New Mexico Rainwater Harvesting ManualD6Z
This document provides a guide for rainwater harvesting systems in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It discusses simple rainwater harvesting systems that consist of a catchment area, distribution system, and landscape holding area. The guide describes how to design and construct simple systems, including using roofing as a catchment, gutters and downspouts as a distribution system, and depressed planting beds as holding areas. It emphasizes using native and drought-tolerant plants suited to intermittent water supplies.
This document discusses rainwater harvesting policies and regulations. It begins by outlining the benefits of rainwater harvesting, which include providing an inexpensive water supply, augmenting drinking water supplies, reducing stormwater runoff and pollution, and reducing peak summer water demands. However, rainwater harvesting is not widely addressed by regulations and codes. The document then examines typical domestic and commercial water usage and how rainwater could be used more appropriately for non-potable uses like irrigation and toilet flushing. Key considerations for developing rainwater harvesting policies and regulations include appropriate water quality standards and treatment requirements to prevent cross-contamination based on end uses. Jurisdictions vary in their rules, with some allowing potable reuse and others limiting reuse to
This document provides information on creating a water-thrifty landscape through selecting plants adapted to local precipitation patterns, using alternatives to drinking water for irrigation such as rainwater collection, graywater, and air conditioning condensate, and employing efficient irrigation techniques. It discusses selecting drought-tolerant native plants, limiting lawn areas, using mulches to retain soil moisture, and harvesting rainwater through rain barrels or cisterns. The document recommends irrigating only when needed, using a rain gauge or soil moisture probe to determine when to water, and employing drip irrigation or soaker hoses to apply water slowly and directly to plant roots.
This document discusses rainwater harvesting in India. It notes that India has experienced some climate changes in recent decades, including a warming trend along parts of the coast and a cooling trend in northwest India. Rainfall patterns have also varied regionally. The document then provides details on rainwater harvesting techniques in India, including collecting rainwater from rooftops and recharging groundwater. It discusses the benefits of rainwater harvesting in supplementing water resources and replenishing aquifers, as well as some limitations. Design considerations for rainwater harvesting systems are also outlined.
Rain Gardens: Stormwater Management in your BackyardSotirakou964
This document summarizes a regional project called "Rain Gardens: Stormwater Management in your Backyard". The project integrates research, education, and extension to promote the use of rain gardens for stormwater management. It began as a course for New Jersey Master Gardeners and has since expanded to other states and territories. The project provides lectures on stormwater issues, BMP design and construction, and monitoring. It also supports research on pollutant removal and community education programs. The goal is to expand rain garden use and disconnect impervious surfaces to improve water quality through stormwater management.
This document provides an introduction to rainwater harvesting, including its benefits and growing global interest. It discusses key global demographic trends like population growth and rapid urbanization, especially in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. This is creating challenges for water supply. Rainwater harvesting is presented as a decentralized solution that can help address these challenges in a sustainable way by augmenting freshwater resources. The document outlines the objectives and components of UN-HABITAT's guide on rainwater harvesting and its water for cities programme.
Rain Gardens for the Protection Narragansett BaySotirakou964
The document describes a demonstration rain garden installed at the North Kingstown Town Hall. It summarizes the benefits of rain gardens in reducing stormwater runoff and pollution while beautifying landscapes. The garden captures runoff from the building's roof through an underground pipe and stores it in a 10' by 16' depression planted with native species. Proper garden design, installation, and maintenance helps protect local water resources and wildlife.
Waterfall, patricia h. (universidad de arizona) harvesting rainwaterPlan Huerta
This document provides guidance on harvesting rainwater for landscape use. It discusses the components of a rainwater harvesting system, including the water supply (rainfall), plant water demands, and the system to move water. Simple systems can direct roof runoff to landscaped areas using gutters, downspouts and berms. Proper plant selection and constructing basins and swales can maximize water storage and direct runoff. Regular maintenance is needed to keep the system functioning well.
Albuquerque, New Mexico Rainwater Harvesting ManualD6Z
This document provides a guide for rainwater harvesting systems in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It discusses simple rainwater harvesting systems that consist of a catchment area, distribution system, and landscape holding area. The guide describes how to design and construct simple systems, including using roofing as a catchment, gutters and downspouts as a distribution system, and depressed planting beds as holding areas. It emphasizes using native and drought-tolerant plants suited to intermittent water supplies.
This document discusses rainwater harvesting policies and regulations. It begins by outlining the benefits of rainwater harvesting, which include providing an inexpensive water supply, augmenting drinking water supplies, reducing stormwater runoff and pollution, and reducing peak summer water demands. However, rainwater harvesting is not widely addressed by regulations and codes. The document then examines typical domestic and commercial water usage and how rainwater could be used more appropriately for non-potable uses like irrigation and toilet flushing. Key considerations for developing rainwater harvesting policies and regulations include appropriate water quality standards and treatment requirements to prevent cross-contamination based on end uses. Jurisdictions vary in their rules, with some allowing potable reuse and others limiting reuse to
This document provides information on creating a water-thrifty landscape through selecting plants adapted to local precipitation patterns, using alternatives to drinking water for irrigation such as rainwater collection, graywater, and air conditioning condensate, and employing efficient irrigation techniques. It discusses selecting drought-tolerant native plants, limiting lawn areas, using mulches to retain soil moisture, and harvesting rainwater through rain barrels or cisterns. The document recommends irrigating only when needed, using a rain gauge or soil moisture probe to determine when to water, and employing drip irrigation or soaker hoses to apply water slowly and directly to plant roots.
This document discusses rainwater harvesting in India. It notes that India has experienced some climate changes in recent decades, including a warming trend along parts of the coast and a cooling trend in northwest India. Rainfall patterns have also varied regionally. The document then provides details on rainwater harvesting techniques in India, including collecting rainwater from rooftops and recharging groundwater. It discusses the benefits of rainwater harvesting in supplementing water resources and replenishing aquifers, as well as some limitations. Design considerations for rainwater harvesting systems are also outlined.
Rain Gardens: Stormwater Management in your BackyardSotirakou964
This document summarizes a regional project called "Rain Gardens: Stormwater Management in your Backyard". The project integrates research, education, and extension to promote the use of rain gardens for stormwater management. It began as a course for New Jersey Master Gardeners and has since expanded to other states and territories. The project provides lectures on stormwater issues, BMP design and construction, and monitoring. It also supports research on pollutant removal and community education programs. The goal is to expand rain garden use and disconnect impervious surfaces to improve water quality through stormwater management.
This document provides an introduction to rainwater harvesting, including its benefits and growing global interest. It discusses key global demographic trends like population growth and rapid urbanization, especially in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. This is creating challenges for water supply. Rainwater harvesting is presented as a decentralized solution that can help address these challenges in a sustainable way by augmenting freshwater resources. The document outlines the objectives and components of UN-HABITAT's guide on rainwater harvesting and its water for cities programme.
Rain Gardens for the Protection Narragansett BaySotirakou964
The document describes a demonstration rain garden installed at the North Kingstown Town Hall. It summarizes the benefits of rain gardens in reducing stormwater runoff and pollution while beautifying landscapes. The garden captures runoff from the building's roof through an underground pipe and stores it in a 10' by 16' depression planted with native species. Proper garden design, installation, and maintenance helps protect local water resources and wildlife.
Santa Monica CA Rainwater Harvesting ManualSotirakou964
This document provides an introduction and overview of the City of Culver City's Rainwater Harvesting Program. The program aims to help homeowners capture rainwater from their roofs and redirect it to on-site pervious areas or rain barrels to reduce stormwater runoff. Harvesting rainwater provides benefits such as protecting water resources, reducing energy demands, practicing water conservation, and recharging groundwater supplies. The document outlines options for redirecting rainwater and provides guidance on assessing sites, measuring slopes, and installing rain barrels or building rain gardens to harvest rainwater on one's own property.
Integrated urban water management singapore's experience and lessons learnt...Global Water Partnership
Singapore faced significant water challenges as a small island nation with a high population density and rapid growth. Through integrated urban water management and a "four national taps" strategy of catchment water, imported water, NEWater, and desalination, Singapore has developed a resilient and sustainable water supply. Key lessons include treating water as a strategic issue, having a single agency manage the water loop holistically, increasing supply through various sources while managing demand, and engaging stakeholders through pricing, community programs, and industry partnerships. Singapore shares its experience through hosting the annual Singapore International Water Week to foster global collaboration.
India; Harvesting Rainwater, Catch Water Where it Falls: Rooftop Rain Water ...D5Z
Harvesting rainwater is an effective way to address water scarcity issues, especially in urban areas like Delhi that are facing acute shortages. Roof rainwater harvesting systems capture rainwater and use various structures like recharge pits and trenches to allow the water to percolate into the ground and recharge aquifers. This helps restore hydrological balance and lowers stress on groundwater supplies. Rainwater harvesting is a low-cost solution that is easy to implement at individual homes, apartments, colonies and other developments. It provides environmental and financial benefits by supplementing water needs and reducing pumping costs.
Integrated urban water management experiences from ethekweni municipality s...Global Water Partnership
The document discusses integrated urban water management in Ethekweni Municipality, South Africa. It outlines key principles of integrated urban water management including considering the collective impact of water processes on issues like health, environment and stakeholder satisfaction. It then provides an overview of Ethekweni Municipality, describing its population, infrastructure, challenges and opportunities. Specific integrated urban water management strategies being implemented are then discussed, including non-revenue water reduction programs, water reuse initiatives, and exploring renewable energy options.
Rainwater Harvesting and Utilisation Project Managers & Implementing AgenciesK9T
This document provides an overview of rainwater harvesting and utilization. It discusses global demographic trends showing increasing urbanization and population growth, creating water scarcity issues. Rainwater harvesting provides multiple benefits like improving groundwater quality and access to water. It has grown in interest globally with initiatives promoting its implementation. The document covers concepts of rainwater harvesting systems and technology, case studies of implementations, and planning/monitoring of projects.
Evaluating Options for Water Sensitive Urban Design: A National GuideRetiz16x
The document provides case studies of various Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) projects across Australia. The Pimpama Coomera Water Futures Project case study describes a master plan for a growing region that provides water and wastewater services more sustainably, including supplying houses from three water sources and improving stormwater management. The Springfield Development case study outlines a new residential development featuring dual reticulation for non-potable water reuse and surface irrigation with stormwater and recycled water. The Ascot Waters case study describes a redevelopment that converted degraded land into an estate divided into zones applying a 'treatment train' approach to water management, including vegetated swales and detention basins.
This document discusses the history and forms of water harvesting. It begins by providing context on water harvesting's past role in agriculture and recent renewed interest. It then describes six main forms of water harvesting: 1) roof top, 2) for animal consumption, 3) inter-row, 4) microcatchment, 5) medium-sized catchment, and 6) large catchment. Each form is characterized by parameters like catchment area, cropping area, precipitation levels, and slope. The goal of water harvesting is to increase plant production in dry areas by concentrating rainfall runoff.
MA: WaterWise Landscaping to Fight the Water Crisis and DroughtSotirakou964
This document is the newsletter of the Ecological Landscaping Association. It focuses on the topic of water and sustainable water management. In 3 sentences:
Water is essential for life but freshwater resources are under threat from population growth and unsustainable practices. The natural water cycle and protecting watersheds are keys to sustainable water management. The document discusses water sources, problems caused by interfering with watersheds like flooding and drought, and calls for protecting water sources and conserving water usage.
Rain Water Harvesting - Indian Railways Institute of Civil Engineering D6Z
Rain water harvesting is an important way to conserve water resources for the future. As populations and water usage increase, groundwater levels are declining due to overuse. Rain water harvesting helps replenish groundwater by collecting rainwater and allowing it to percolate back into the water table. It has many benefits like increasing water availability, reducing soil erosion and flood risks. While all rainwater cannot be captured, understanding factors like catchment area, rainfall patterns, and runoff coefficients can help estimate the potential for rain water harvesting in a given location. Rain water harvesting is vital for ensuring adequate water resources for the future.
The document discusses key principles of water sensitive urban design including protecting natural waterways, integrating storm water treatment into landscapes, reducing runoff and peak flows, and protecting water quality. It provides statistics on household water consumption and savings from water efficient appliances. Recommendations are given for water efficient toilets, showerheads, faucets, and other fixtures that can save significant amounts of water and energy. Case studies and initiatives from the EPA and state environmental agencies on water conservation planning and pollution prevention are also summarized.
This document discusses integrated watershed management and rainwater harvesting. It covers several topics:
1. Integrated watershed management involves integrating river basin resources, demands, facilities, human and ecological systems, and science and engineering with social, economic and environmental needs.
2. India has limited land and water resources to support its large population, but integrated watershed development and modeling can help optimize resource use.
3. Water conservation and rainwater harvesting techniques like installing low-flow shower heads and reusing graywater can help ensure sustainable water resources for the future while changing wasteful habits.
1. Rainwater harvesting techniques have been practiced for thousands of years around the world, but research on the topic is more recent. Runoff farming and collecting rainfall in reservoirs was used by ancient civilizations.
2. Modern techniques use materials like asphalt and plastic to more efficiently collect and store rainwater for irrigation and drinking water. Research in the mid-20th century improved methods for increasing runoff and capturing it.
3. There is a growing need for rainwater harvesting in India as demand for water is increasing while availability is decreasing due to groundwater depletion and irregular monsoons. Collecting rainwater could help meet rising agricultural, industrial, and domestic water needs.
The document discusses barriers to adopting Low Impact Development (LID) practices in municipal codes in Bay Area cities. It analyzed the codes of San Jose, Hayward, San Rafael, San Mateo, and Pleasanton and found opportunities to better incorporate LID. Key barriers included standards that require excessive impervious surfaces and lack flexibility. Adopting LID practices like minimizing pavement and clustering development could help cities improve stormwater management and water quality as required by regulations.
The document discusses water sensitive urban design (WSUD) which aims to minimize the hydrological and water quality impacts of urban development through an integrated approach. It describes some key principles of WSUD including protecting natural water systems, integrating stormwater treatment into the landscape, protecting water quality, and reducing runoff and peak flows. It provides examples of WSUD practices such as bioretention systems, wetlands, and detention ponds that can achieve these goals.
This document provides guidance on creating and maintaining rain gardens. Rain gardens are landscape features that intercept stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces and allow it to soak into the ground, reducing pollution and flooding. The document discusses site selection, design, plant selection, construction, and maintenance of rain gardens. It aims to promote rain gardens as a way to improve water quality and habitat while solving drainage problems.
Greywater systems offer a way to reuse household wastewater and reduce potable water usage. They capture "greywater" from showers, sinks, and washing machines to water landscaping instead of sending it down the drain. Greywater recycling provides environmental benefits while easing pressure on water supplies.
Greywater systems capture wastewater from baths, showers, washing machines, and sinks, which account for over half of total household water usage. This greywater is diverted to either a holding tank or direct irrigation lines rather than the sewer system. The water is then used to irrigate lawns, gardens
Evs Project on Rainwater harvesting Calcutta universityAmit Singh
Rainwater harvesting has many benefits but requires correctly sizing storage tanks. There are 5 key steps to designing an effective system:
1. Determine household water demand and available rainfall.
2. Design the catchment area, usually a roof.
3. Plan the delivery system of gutters and pipes to storage.
4. Calculate the necessary storage tank size based on water demand and rainfall patterns.
5. Select an appropriate tank design that is sealed and prevents contamination.
Rainwater harvesting involves collecting and storing rainwater from rooftops or surfaces before it reaches the aquifer. It has been used for centuries to provide drinking water, livestock water, and irrigation. The document discusses the need for rainwater harvesting due to increasing water demand and declining groundwater levels. It describes various rainwater harvesting techniques like rooftop and surface runoff collection and explains the benefits like free water, groundwater recharge, and self-sufficiency. Rainwater harvesting was practiced in ancient civilizations and remains important for rural water supply. Maintaining quality is important for safe water consumption.
This document summarizes the key points from a report on rainwater harvesting in India. It begins by acknowledging those who helped complete the report. It then provides reasons for rainwater harvesting such as increasing water demands, variations in water availability, and water quality issues. Various methods of rainwater harvesting are described, including rooftop collection and surface runoff collection. The objectives, advantages, and potential disadvantages of rainwater harvesting systems are outlined. Finally, some success stories of rainwater harvesting projects in cities and villages across India are highlighted.
Water: water is renewable resource. Three- fourth of surface is covered with water but only a small proportion of it accounts for freshwater fit for use.
Some facts about water
Only 2.5% of the world’s water is fresh water and most of this are in the form of polar ice-caps.
Water use as increased by 70% since 1970.
A recent report by credit issues stated that by 2025 18 will
countries experience water demand beyond supply capabilities.
Santa Monica CA Rainwater Harvesting ManualSotirakou964
This document provides an introduction and overview of the City of Culver City's Rainwater Harvesting Program. The program aims to help homeowners capture rainwater from their roofs and redirect it to on-site pervious areas or rain barrels to reduce stormwater runoff. Harvesting rainwater provides benefits such as protecting water resources, reducing energy demands, practicing water conservation, and recharging groundwater supplies. The document outlines options for redirecting rainwater and provides guidance on assessing sites, measuring slopes, and installing rain barrels or building rain gardens to harvest rainwater on one's own property.
Integrated urban water management singapore's experience and lessons learnt...Global Water Partnership
Singapore faced significant water challenges as a small island nation with a high population density and rapid growth. Through integrated urban water management and a "four national taps" strategy of catchment water, imported water, NEWater, and desalination, Singapore has developed a resilient and sustainable water supply. Key lessons include treating water as a strategic issue, having a single agency manage the water loop holistically, increasing supply through various sources while managing demand, and engaging stakeholders through pricing, community programs, and industry partnerships. Singapore shares its experience through hosting the annual Singapore International Water Week to foster global collaboration.
India; Harvesting Rainwater, Catch Water Where it Falls: Rooftop Rain Water ...D5Z
Harvesting rainwater is an effective way to address water scarcity issues, especially in urban areas like Delhi that are facing acute shortages. Roof rainwater harvesting systems capture rainwater and use various structures like recharge pits and trenches to allow the water to percolate into the ground and recharge aquifers. This helps restore hydrological balance and lowers stress on groundwater supplies. Rainwater harvesting is a low-cost solution that is easy to implement at individual homes, apartments, colonies and other developments. It provides environmental and financial benefits by supplementing water needs and reducing pumping costs.
Integrated urban water management experiences from ethekweni municipality s...Global Water Partnership
The document discusses integrated urban water management in Ethekweni Municipality, South Africa. It outlines key principles of integrated urban water management including considering the collective impact of water processes on issues like health, environment and stakeholder satisfaction. It then provides an overview of Ethekweni Municipality, describing its population, infrastructure, challenges and opportunities. Specific integrated urban water management strategies being implemented are then discussed, including non-revenue water reduction programs, water reuse initiatives, and exploring renewable energy options.
Rainwater Harvesting and Utilisation Project Managers & Implementing AgenciesK9T
This document provides an overview of rainwater harvesting and utilization. It discusses global demographic trends showing increasing urbanization and population growth, creating water scarcity issues. Rainwater harvesting provides multiple benefits like improving groundwater quality and access to water. It has grown in interest globally with initiatives promoting its implementation. The document covers concepts of rainwater harvesting systems and technology, case studies of implementations, and planning/monitoring of projects.
Evaluating Options for Water Sensitive Urban Design: A National GuideRetiz16x
The document provides case studies of various Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) projects across Australia. The Pimpama Coomera Water Futures Project case study describes a master plan for a growing region that provides water and wastewater services more sustainably, including supplying houses from three water sources and improving stormwater management. The Springfield Development case study outlines a new residential development featuring dual reticulation for non-potable water reuse and surface irrigation with stormwater and recycled water. The Ascot Waters case study describes a redevelopment that converted degraded land into an estate divided into zones applying a 'treatment train' approach to water management, including vegetated swales and detention basins.
This document discusses the history and forms of water harvesting. It begins by providing context on water harvesting's past role in agriculture and recent renewed interest. It then describes six main forms of water harvesting: 1) roof top, 2) for animal consumption, 3) inter-row, 4) microcatchment, 5) medium-sized catchment, and 6) large catchment. Each form is characterized by parameters like catchment area, cropping area, precipitation levels, and slope. The goal of water harvesting is to increase plant production in dry areas by concentrating rainfall runoff.
MA: WaterWise Landscaping to Fight the Water Crisis and DroughtSotirakou964
This document is the newsletter of the Ecological Landscaping Association. It focuses on the topic of water and sustainable water management. In 3 sentences:
Water is essential for life but freshwater resources are under threat from population growth and unsustainable practices. The natural water cycle and protecting watersheds are keys to sustainable water management. The document discusses water sources, problems caused by interfering with watersheds like flooding and drought, and calls for protecting water sources and conserving water usage.
Rain Water Harvesting - Indian Railways Institute of Civil Engineering D6Z
Rain water harvesting is an important way to conserve water resources for the future. As populations and water usage increase, groundwater levels are declining due to overuse. Rain water harvesting helps replenish groundwater by collecting rainwater and allowing it to percolate back into the water table. It has many benefits like increasing water availability, reducing soil erosion and flood risks. While all rainwater cannot be captured, understanding factors like catchment area, rainfall patterns, and runoff coefficients can help estimate the potential for rain water harvesting in a given location. Rain water harvesting is vital for ensuring adequate water resources for the future.
The document discusses key principles of water sensitive urban design including protecting natural waterways, integrating storm water treatment into landscapes, reducing runoff and peak flows, and protecting water quality. It provides statistics on household water consumption and savings from water efficient appliances. Recommendations are given for water efficient toilets, showerheads, faucets, and other fixtures that can save significant amounts of water and energy. Case studies and initiatives from the EPA and state environmental agencies on water conservation planning and pollution prevention are also summarized.
This document discusses integrated watershed management and rainwater harvesting. It covers several topics:
1. Integrated watershed management involves integrating river basin resources, demands, facilities, human and ecological systems, and science and engineering with social, economic and environmental needs.
2. India has limited land and water resources to support its large population, but integrated watershed development and modeling can help optimize resource use.
3. Water conservation and rainwater harvesting techniques like installing low-flow shower heads and reusing graywater can help ensure sustainable water resources for the future while changing wasteful habits.
1. Rainwater harvesting techniques have been practiced for thousands of years around the world, but research on the topic is more recent. Runoff farming and collecting rainfall in reservoirs was used by ancient civilizations.
2. Modern techniques use materials like asphalt and plastic to more efficiently collect and store rainwater for irrigation and drinking water. Research in the mid-20th century improved methods for increasing runoff and capturing it.
3. There is a growing need for rainwater harvesting in India as demand for water is increasing while availability is decreasing due to groundwater depletion and irregular monsoons. Collecting rainwater could help meet rising agricultural, industrial, and domestic water needs.
The document discusses barriers to adopting Low Impact Development (LID) practices in municipal codes in Bay Area cities. It analyzed the codes of San Jose, Hayward, San Rafael, San Mateo, and Pleasanton and found opportunities to better incorporate LID. Key barriers included standards that require excessive impervious surfaces and lack flexibility. Adopting LID practices like minimizing pavement and clustering development could help cities improve stormwater management and water quality as required by regulations.
The document discusses water sensitive urban design (WSUD) which aims to minimize the hydrological and water quality impacts of urban development through an integrated approach. It describes some key principles of WSUD including protecting natural water systems, integrating stormwater treatment into the landscape, protecting water quality, and reducing runoff and peak flows. It provides examples of WSUD practices such as bioretention systems, wetlands, and detention ponds that can achieve these goals.
This document provides guidance on creating and maintaining rain gardens. Rain gardens are landscape features that intercept stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces and allow it to soak into the ground, reducing pollution and flooding. The document discusses site selection, design, plant selection, construction, and maintenance of rain gardens. It aims to promote rain gardens as a way to improve water quality and habitat while solving drainage problems.
Greywater systems offer a way to reuse household wastewater and reduce potable water usage. They capture "greywater" from showers, sinks, and washing machines to water landscaping instead of sending it down the drain. Greywater recycling provides environmental benefits while easing pressure on water supplies.
Greywater systems capture wastewater from baths, showers, washing machines, and sinks, which account for over half of total household water usage. This greywater is diverted to either a holding tank or direct irrigation lines rather than the sewer system. The water is then used to irrigate lawns, gardens
Evs Project on Rainwater harvesting Calcutta universityAmit Singh
Rainwater harvesting has many benefits but requires correctly sizing storage tanks. There are 5 key steps to designing an effective system:
1. Determine household water demand and available rainfall.
2. Design the catchment area, usually a roof.
3. Plan the delivery system of gutters and pipes to storage.
4. Calculate the necessary storage tank size based on water demand and rainfall patterns.
5. Select an appropriate tank design that is sealed and prevents contamination.
Rainwater harvesting involves collecting and storing rainwater from rooftops or surfaces before it reaches the aquifer. It has been used for centuries to provide drinking water, livestock water, and irrigation. The document discusses the need for rainwater harvesting due to increasing water demand and declining groundwater levels. It describes various rainwater harvesting techniques like rooftop and surface runoff collection and explains the benefits like free water, groundwater recharge, and self-sufficiency. Rainwater harvesting was practiced in ancient civilizations and remains important for rural water supply. Maintaining quality is important for safe water consumption.
This document summarizes the key points from a report on rainwater harvesting in India. It begins by acknowledging those who helped complete the report. It then provides reasons for rainwater harvesting such as increasing water demands, variations in water availability, and water quality issues. Various methods of rainwater harvesting are described, including rooftop collection and surface runoff collection. The objectives, advantages, and potential disadvantages of rainwater harvesting systems are outlined. Finally, some success stories of rainwater harvesting projects in cities and villages across India are highlighted.
Water: water is renewable resource. Three- fourth of surface is covered with water but only a small proportion of it accounts for freshwater fit for use.
Some facts about water
Only 2.5% of the world’s water is fresh water and most of this are in the form of polar ice-caps.
Water use as increased by 70% since 1970.
A recent report by credit issues stated that by 2025 18 will
countries experience water demand beyond supply capabilities.
Global water resources are under increasing pressure from rising populations and changing climate. Most water on Earth is undrinkable saltwater, while freshwater is unevenly distributed and demand is growing. In India, irrigation accounts for 84% of total water usage, far exceeding the global average of 65%. Competing demands for water include agricultural, industrial, residential, and power generation uses. As populations increase, so does water consumption, depleting groundwater supplies. Conservation methods like rainwater harvesting, afforestation, and efficient irrigation can help reduce water demand and promote more sustainable water management.
This document summarizes a presentation on water conservation. It discusses the chemical composition of water, sources of water, the importance of water to life on Earth. It then covers the definition of water conservation, its importance, and methods to conserve water such as reducing daily usage, rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation for farmers, soil management, using weather apps, protecting water from pollution, conserving water in industries, and increasing forest covers. It concludes with a case study on the Jal Jagruti Abhiyan project in Latur, Maharashtra to address drought through strategies like de-silting rivers, planting trees, organic farming, and drip irrigation.
FINAL PPT (HYDROLOGY) WATER HARVESTING.pptxKRIPABHARDWAJ1
The document discusses water harvesting techniques. It describes short term runoff harvesting techniques like contour bunds, semicircular hoops, and trapezoidal bunds which involve constructing earthen structures to collect and store surface runoff. Long term techniques include dugout ponds, silt detention dams, and percolation dams for underground storage. The document also covers benefits like increased production and income, as well as constraints like reliance on rainfall variability and potential negative environmental impacts.
Rainwater harvesting (RWH) is the collection and storage of rain, rather than allowing it to run off. The harvested water can also be committed to longer-term storage or groundwater recharge.
This document provides a summary of a publication about protecting riparian areas on farmland. It discusses how healthy riparian areas provide important ecological benefits but many have been degraded by various land use practices. The summary explains that riparian areas help improve water quality by capturing water and sediments from upstream lands and allowing soils to decontaminate water by binding contaminants. Tables in the publication help evaluate riparian protection strategies. The full publication provides more details on riparian area functions, degradation causes, and land management practices to improve riparian health.
Rainwater harvesting is a technique used for collecting and storing rainwater from rooftops, land surfaces, or rock catchments using simple or engineered methods. It has been practiced for over 4,000 years globally. Rainwater harvesting can be done at the household or community level to provide water for domestic use or agriculture. It involves collecting rainwater from catchment areas and transporting it to a storage system using filters to improve water quality.
Western Washington Rain Garden Handbook
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For more information, Please see websites below:
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Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214 ~
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Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079 ~
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Free School Gardening Art Posters =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
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Increase Food Production with Companion Planting in your School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
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Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348 ~
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City Chickens for your Organic School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440 ~
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Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110 ~
This document discusses rainwater harvesting and watershed management. It defines water harvesting as capturing freshwater sources like rainwater and runoff and storing it for uses like irrigation, drinking water, and groundwater recharge. Rainwater harvesting specifically refers to collecting rainwater from rooftops or land surfaces and storing it. There are rural and urban models of rainwater harvesting in India. Watershed management aims to sustainably manage land, vegetation, and water resources within a drainage area. It outlines objectives, parameters, and practices like conserving soil/water, improving water retention, growing greenery, and structures like contour bunds and check dams.
Rainwater harvesting provides several key advantages. It is a sustainable solution that can be implemented on various scales, from simple rain barrels to more complex systems. Harvested rainwater is suitable for irrigation and can reduce dependence on treated municipal water. Implementing rainwater harvesting systems can help conserve water resources and reduce stormwater runoff and pollution while lowering costs for utilities and consumers. Case studies in India demonstrate how rainwater harvesting increased local groundwater levels and quality in areas like Tamil Nadu and supported communities' water needs as seen in Haryana.
The document discusses water harvesting technologies for domestic and agricultural use. It defines water harvesting as collecting, storing, and conserving local surface runoff. There are three main types: rainwater harvesting from rooftops and surfaces, micro-catchment harvesting from small catchment areas, and macro-catchment harvesting from hill slopes. The role of water harvesting is to provide water for livestock and agriculture in rain-fed areas to increase production. Common technologies discussed include water tanks, zai pits, sand dams, bunds, ponds, and rock catchments. Requirements for appropriate technologies include factors like rainfall, land use, topography, soil type, and environmental impacts.
Rainwater harvesting is a method of collecting and storing rainwater runoff from rooftops in underground tanks or reservoirs. It has several advantages, including providing an independent water supply, reducing flooding, and replenishing groundwater. The key components of a rainwater harvesting system are the roof catchment area, gutters, downpipes, a filtration system, and a storage tank. Proper installation and maintenance can provide a low-cost source of non-potable water for households and help conserve fresh water resources.
Stormwater management aims to reduce surface runoff from rain and snowmelt by promoting infiltration and replenishing groundwater. It is important in urban areas with many impervious surfaces to prevent flooding and pollution. Traditional methods only moved water away, while modern approaches try to restore natural water cycles through retention basins, infiltration basins, bioswales, green roofs, and low impact development techniques. Calculating surface runoff estimates how much water will flow over an area based on its size, average rainfall, and surface type to help design effective drainage systems.
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Arizona Manual on Rainwater Harvesting for Landscape
1. HARVESTING
RAINWATER
FOR LANDSCAPE USE
PATRICIA H. WATERFALL
Extension Agent, University of Arizona
Cooperative Extension/Low 4 Program
Second Edition, October 2004
Revised 2006
2. Cooperative Extension
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
The University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ 85721
Second Edition, October 2004/Revised 2006 • AZ1344
Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, acts of May 8 and June
30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, James A.
Christenson, Director, Cooperative Extension, College of Agriculture & Life
Sciences, The University of Arizona.
The University of Arizona is an equal opportunity, af?rmative action
institution. The University does not discriminate on the basis of race,
color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or
sexual orientation in its programs and activities.
Any products, services, or organizations that are mentioned, shown, or indirectly
implied in this publication do not imply endorsement by the University of Arizona,
or the Arizona Department of Water Resources.
3. HARVESTING RAINWATER
FOR LANDSCAPE USE
First Edition by
Patricia H. Waterfall, Extension Agent -retired
Pima County Cooperative Extension, Low 4 Program
Second Edition prepared by
Christina Bickelmann, Water Conservation Specialist,
Arizona Department of Water Resources, TAMA
Artwork prepared by Silvia Rayces unless otherwise indicated
Cover Design - Christina Bickelmann, ADWR
Culvert Cistern Detail - Scott Calhoun, Josephine Thomason
Large Cistern Detail - Heather Kinkade-Levario
Second edition editorial assistance from
Consortium for Action Throughout the Community for Harvesting
Water (CATCH Water) - Jim Riley, University of Arizona,
Soil, Water and Environmental Science Dept.
Production assistance — ECAT,
University of Arizona College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Project funding and support from
The Water Management Assistance Program
Tucson Active Management Area
Arizona Department of Water Resources
Document may be ordered from the Arizona Department of
Water Resources, Tucson Active Management Area,
400 W. Congress, Suite 518, Tucson AZ 85701,
Phone (520) 770-3800 Fax (520) 628-6759
Visit our website at: www.azwater.gov
4.
5.
6.
7. INTRODUCTION
Historically, harvested rain water provided water for drinking,
landscape watering, and for agricultural uses. Once urban areas
started to develop, centralized water supply systems replaced
the need to harvest water. More recently, people have become
reacquainted with water harvesting, using it to provide water for
residential and commercial landscapes.
Harvesting rainwater can reduce the use of drinking water for
landscape irrigation. It is also an effective water conservation
tool and proves more bene cial when coupled with the use of
native, low-water-use and desert-adapted plants. Additionally,
rainwater is available free of charge and puts no added strain
on the municipal supply or private wells.
Throughout Arizona and the arid Southwest, annual and seasonal
precipitation varies widely and is often scarce when plant water
requirements are high during the summer months. In the desert
regions of Arizona, approximately half of the annual rain falls in
winter, the remainder during the summer monsoons. At higher
elevations, in addition to the monsoons, winter precipitation
may come in the form of snow providing opportunities for water
harvesting when it melts.
The Phoenix and Tucson areas receive an average of 8 and
12 inches of annual rainfall, respectively. Along the Colorado
River, cities such as Yuma and Bullhead City receive only 3 to 6
inches. At higher elevations annual rainfall varies from as low as
15 inches to as high as 23 inches. Only native and some plants
that can ourish in our soils and climate can live on the annual
rainfall received. Plants from non-arid climates require a great
deal of supplemental irrigation.
There are many water harvesting opportunities on developed
sites and it can easily be planned into a new landscape during the
design phase. Homes, schools, parks, parking lots, apartment
complexes, and commercial facilities all provide sites where
rainfall can be harvested. Even very small yards can bene t from
water harvesting. Whether your landscape is large or small, the
principles outlined in this manual apply.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 1
8. Series of planted water harvesting basins on a slope.
Water harvesting is the capture, diversion, and storage of
rainwater for plant irrigation and other uses. It is appropriate for
large scale landscapes such as parks, schools, commercial sites,
parking lots, and apartment complexes, as well as small scale
residential landscapes.
Parking lot draining into concave lawn area.
2 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
9. Many methods are available to harvest rain water for landscape
use, some of them inexpensive and easy to construct. An example
would be storing water in a barrel for later use or constructing
small berms and drainages to direct water to a row of trees. Even
the simplest methods provide bene ts. The water customer's bill
is lowered and the community receives long-term bene ts from
reduced water use and less soil erosion. All you need to get
started is rainfall and plants that require irrigation.
There are many bene ts to harvesting rainwater:
♦ Water harvesting not only reduces potable water
use and related costs, but also reduces off-site
ooding and erosion by holding rainwater on the
site.
♦ If large amounts of water are held in pervious
areas where water penetrates easily, some of the
water may percolate to the water table.
♦ Rainwater is a clean, salt-free source of water for
plants.
♦ Rainwater harvesting can reduce salt accumulation
in the soil which can be harmful to root growth.
When collected, rainwater percolates into the
soil, forcing salts down and away from the root
zone area. This allows for greater root growth
and water uptake, which increases the drought
tolerance of plants.
♦ Limitations of water harvesting are few and are
easily met by good planning and design.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 3
10. WATER HARVESTING SYSTEM COMPONENTS
A rainwater harvesting system has three components: the supply
(rainfall), the demand (landscape water requirement), and the
system that moves the water to the plants. Storage is an additional
element which is optional.
Rainfall. Rainwater runoff refers to rainwater which flows off a
surface. If the surface is impervious (water cannot penetrate it),
then runoff occurs immediately. If the surface is pervious (water
can penetrate it), then runoff will not occur until the surface is
saturated. Runoff can be harvested (captured) and used
immediately to water plants or can be stored for later use. Several
factors affect runoff, the most important being the amount of
rainfall. Rainfall duration refers to the length of time the rain
falls, the longer the duration, the more water available to harvest.
The intensity of the rainfall affects how soon the water will begin
to run off and also how fast it runs off. The harder it rains and the
longer it lasts the more water there is for harvesting. The timing
of the rainfall is also important. If only one rainfall occurs, water
percolates into the dry soil until it becomes saturated. If a second
rainfall occurs soon after the first, more water may runoff because
the soil is already wet.
Plant Water Requirement. The type of plants selected, their
age and size, and how closely together they are planted all affect
how much water is required to maintain a healthy landscape.
Because rainfall is scarce in arid regions, it is best to select plants
with low water requirements and control planting densities to
reduce overall water need. Native plants are well-adapted to
seasonal, short-lived water supplies, and most desert-adapted
plants can tolerate drought, making them good choices for
landscape planting.
Water Collection and Distribution System. Water harvesting
systems range from simple to complex. In a simple system the
rainwater is used immediately. Most homeowners can design
simple water harvesting systems to meet the needs of their
existing site. Designing water harvesting systems into new
construction allows the homeowner to be more elaborate and
thorough in developing a system. In the case of very simple
systems, the pay back period may be almost immediate.
4 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
11. Simple system — Roof catchment, gutters, downspouts and
bermed landscape holding area.
A simple system usually consists of a catchment area, and a
means of distribution, which operates by gravity. The water is
deposited in a landscape holding area, a concave area or planted
area with “edges” to retain water, where it can be used
immediately by the plants.
Simple system — Roof catchment, channel and planted landscape
holding area.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 5
12. A good example of a simple system is water dripping from the
edge of the roof to a planted area or diversion channel directly
below. Gravity moves the water to where it can be used. In
some cases, small containers are used to hold water for later
use.
Simple system —
Roof catchment, gutters, downspouts and french drain.
A catchment area is any area from which water can be harvested.
Water collects on roofs, paved areas or the soil surface. The
best catchments have hard smooth surfaces, such as concrete
or metal roofing material. The amount of water harvested
depends on the size, surface texture, and slope of the catchment
area.
The distribution system connects the catchment area to the
landscape holding area. Distribution systems direct water flow,
and can be very simple or very sophisticated. For example:
♦ Gutters and downspouts direct roof water to a holding
area, and gently sloped sidewalks distribute water to
a planted area.
♦ Hillsides provide a perfect situation for moving water
from a catchment area to a holding area.
♦ Channels, ditches, and swales all can be utilized to
move water. Elaborate open channel distribution
systems may require gates and diverters to direct the
water from one area to another.
♦ Standard or perforated pipes and drip irrigation
systems can be designed to distribute water.
♦ Curb cutouts can channel street or parking lot water
to planted areas. If gravity flow is not possible, a small
pump may be required to move the water.
6 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
13. Landscape holding areas store water in the soil for direct use by
the plants. Concave depressions planted with grass or plants
serve as landscape holding areas, containing the water,
increasing water penetration, and reducing flooding. Depressed
areas can be dug out, and the extra soil used to berm (a bank of
soil used to retain water) the depression. With the addition of
berms, moats, or soil terracing, flat areas also can hold water.
One holding area or a series of holding areas can be designed
to fill and then flow into adjacent holding areas via spillways
(outlets for surplus water).
Crescent-shaped landscaped holding areas on a slope.
Soil erosion can be a problem with water moving quickly over
the soil surface. Basins and spillways help reduce this. Crescent-
shaped berms constructed around the base of the plant on the
downhill side are useful on slopes for slowing and holding water.
Gabion in a stream bed.
Gabions (a stationary grouping of large rocks encased in wire
mesh) are widely used to contain water and reduce erosion. A
trench is dug at least 12 inches deep across the wash, wire mesh
is laid in the trench with the rocks to prevent undercutting.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 7
14. Pervious paving block with grass.
French drains (holes or trenches filled with gravel) can also hold
water for plant use. And lastly, pervious paving materials, such
as gravel, crushed stone, open paving blocks, and pervious
paving blocks, allow water to infiltrate into the soil to irrigate plants
with large, extensive root systems, such as trees.
Parking lot curb cutout directing water into planted area.
8 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
15. SIMPLE WATER HARVESTING SYSTEM
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
By observing your landscape during a rain, you can locate the
existing drainage patterns on your site and identify low points
and high points. Utilize these drainage patterns and gravity flow
to move water from catchment areas to planted areas. If you
are harvesting rainwater from the roof, extend downspouts to
reach planted areas. Or, provide a path, drainage, or hose to
move the water where it is needed.
Take advantage of existing sloped paving such as walkways and
patios to catch water and redistribute it to planted areas. The
placement and slope of new paving can be designed to increase
runoff. If sidewalks, terraces, or driveways are not yet
constructed, slope them two percent (approximately 1/4 inch per
foot) toward planting areas and utilize the runoff for irrigation.
Bare dirt can also serve as a catchment area by grading the
surface to increase and direct runoff.
Site plan showing drainage patterns and landscape holding
areas (aerial view).
Next locate and size your landscape holding areas. Locate
landscape depressions that can hold water or create new
depressions where you want to locate new plants. Rather than
digging a basin around existing plants, construct berms or moats
on the existing surface to avoid damaging roots. Do not mound
soil at the base of trees or other plants.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 9
16. Tree drip line and basin edge.
Holding areas around existing plants should extend beyond the
“drip line” to accommodate and encourage extensive root
systems. The more developed a plant’s root system, the more
drought tolerant the plant becomes because the roots have a
larger area to find water. For new plantings, locate the plants at
the upper edge of concave holding areas to encourage extensive
rooting and to avoid subjecting the roots to extended inundation
(flooding). With either existing or new landscapes you may want
to connect several holding areas with spillways or channels to
distribute the water throughout the site.
To take advantage of water free-falling from roof downspouts
(canales) plant large rigid plants where the water falls or hang a
large chain from the downspout to the ground to disperse and
slow the water. Provide a basin to hold the water for the plants
and also to slow it down. It may be necessary to use rocks or
other hard material to break the fall and prevent erosion. If it is a
sloped site, large, connected, descending holding areas can be
constructed for additional plants.
Selecting Plant Material. A major factor in the success of a
water harvesting project is proper plant selection. Native and
desert-adapted plants can be grown successfully using harvested
rainwater for irrigation. Some plants cannot survive in the
detention area if in clay soil that is repeatedlysaturated over a
long period of time. Select native plants or plants adapted to
your local climate that can withstand prolonged drought and
prolonged inundation. If plants are going to be planted in the
bottom of large, deep basins, low water use, native riparian trees
may be the most appropriate choice (hackberry, desert willow,
acacia, mesquite).
10 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
17. Seeding is another planting alternative for holding basins. Select
seed mixes containing native or desert-adapted wildflowers,
grasses, and herbaceous plants. Consider annual plants for
instant color and perennial plants for extended growth. Perennial
grasses are particularly valuable for holding the soil in place and
preventing erosion.
Construction Hints. If you are going to dig, particularly if you
are going to be using a bobcat, small tractor, or rototiller, call
Arizona Blue Stake (1–800–782–5348) to locate where utility
lines come into your property. This will eliminate leaks and breaks.
Even if you are constructing a simple system with a rake and
shovel, be aware of utility line locations.
Soils in the landscape holding areas should not be compacted
because this inhibits the water moving through the soil, if it is,
loosen it by tilling. If the soil is too sandy and will not hold water
for any length of time, you may wish to add composted organic
matter to the soil to increase moisture holding potential (This is
not necessary with native or desert-adapted plants). After planting
apply a 2 1/2 – 3 inch layer of mulch to the surface to reduce
evaporation.
TABLE - 1
MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST
Keep holding areas free of debris.
Control and prevent erosion, block erosion trails.
Clean, repair channels.
Clean, repair dikes, berms, moats.
Keep gutters and downspouts free of debris.
Flush debris from the bottom of storage
containers, if possible.
Clean and maintain filters, including drip filters.
Expand the area of concentration as plants grow.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 11
18. System Maintenance. Water harvesting systems are always
in a state of “construction.” Developing a water harvesting system
is actually an ongoing process that can be improved and
expanded over time. Water harvesting systems should be
inspected before each rainy season and ideally after every rain
event to keep the system operating at optimum performance.
Make a habit of observing your system during rain events to
determine whether the water is moving where you want it, or
whether you are losing water that could be captured. Also
determine if the holding areas are doing a good job of containing
the water. Make changes and repairs as your system requires.
As time goes on you may discover additional areas where water
can be harvested and where water can be channeled.
Monitor Water Use. Now that you have your system operating,
it is a good idea to monitor your landscape water use. If you
have constructed water harvesting basins in an existing land-
scape, use last year's water bills to compare your pre-water har-
vesting use to your post-water harvesting use. If you have added
new plants to a water harvesting area, the water savings begins
when they are planted. Every time they can be irrigated with
harvested rainwater there is a water savings!
COMPLEX WATER HARVESTING
SYSTEMS
Water harvesting cannot provide a completely dependable source
of irrigation water because it is dependent on the weather, and
weather is not dependable. To get the maximum benefit from
rainwater harvesting, some storage can be built into the water
harvesting system to provide water between rainfall events. In
Southern and Central Arizona there are two rainy periods
(summer and winter) with long dry periods between the two.
Heavy rainfall can produce more water than can be utilized by a
landscape during that rainfall event. Once the root zone of the
plants have been thoroughly wetted, the rainwater begins to move
below the root zone. At this point plants are well irrigated. As the
soil becomes saturated, water begins to run off or stand on the
surface. The saturation point and the onset of runoff is dependent
on the texture and condition of the soil. For instance, sandy soils
accept more water than clayey soils before runoff occurs.
12 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
19. Many people ask whether they can harvest enough water in an
average year to provide sufficient irrigation for an entire
landscape, it depends. If you are interested in designing a totally
self-sufficient water harvesting system, then the amount of water
harvested and the water needed for landscape irrigation should
be in balance. Storage capacity plays a big role in this equation
by making rainwater available in the dry seasons when the plants
need it.
Complex water harvesting system with roof catchment, gutter,
downspout, storage, & drip irrigation distribution system.
Rainfall harvesting systems that utilize storage result in both
larger water savings and higher construction costs. These more
complex systems can be constructed for homes or for larger
facilities but may require professional assistance to design and
construct. With such a system the cost of storage, particularly
the disposal of soil and rock from underground storage
construction, is a major consideration. However, soil and rock
from storage construction could be used for raising paths and
other areas so water would run off into low lying areas or used
for berms to hold water, increasing water harvesting on the site
and reducing removal costs.
Is the cost of storage greater than the cost of water? In many
cases, yes. In this case the personal commitment to a “water
conservation ethic” may come into play. A more realistic goal,
and one that is followed by most people is to harvest less than
the total landscape requirement. Another option is to reduce
your demand by reducing the number and size of your planting
areas or plant densities. This involves less storage and is
therefore less expensive.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 13
20. Elements of a Complex Water Harvesting System
Components of complex systems that utilize storage include
catchment areas, usually a roof, conveyance systems, storage,
and distribution systems to control where the water goes. The
amount of water or “yield” that the catchment area will provide
depends on the size of the catchment area and its surface texture.
Catchment areas made of concrete, asphalt, or brick paving and
smooth-surfaced roofing materials provide high yields. Bare soil
surfaces provide harvests of medium yield. Of all the soil types,
compacted clayey soils have the highest yield. Planted areas,
such as grass or groundcover areas offer the lowest yields
because the plants hold the water longer allowing it to infiltrate
into the soil. This is not necessarily a problem, depending whether
you want to use collected water immediately in planted areas, or
store it for later use.
TABLE - 2
RUNOFF COEFFICIENTS
HIGH LOW
ROOF
Metal, gravel, asphalt, 0.95 0.90
shingle, fiber glass,
mineral paper
PAVING
Concrete, asphalt 1.00 0.90
GRAVEL 0.70 0.25
SOIL
Flat, bare 0.75 0.20
Flat, with vegetation 0.60 0.10
LAWNS
Flat, sandy soil 0.10 0.05
Flat, heavy soil 0.17 0.13
Conveyance systems. With a roof catchment system the gutter
and downspouts are the means of conveyance that direct the
water from the catchment area to the storage container. Gutters
and downspouts are either concealed inside the walls of buildings
or attached to the exterior of buildings. They can be added to
the outside of a building at any time. Proper sizing of gutters is
important to collect as much rainfall as possible. (See Guidelines,
Appendix A)
14 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
21. Gutter drain filter.
Before the water is stored it should be filtered to remove particles
and debris. The degree of filtration is dependent on the size of
the distribution tubing (drip systems would require more and
finer filtering than water distributed through a hose). Filters can
be in-line or a leaf screen can be placed over the gutter at the
top of the downspout.
Many people divert the first part of the rainfall to eliminate debris
from the harvested water. The initial rain “washes” debris off the
roof, the later rainfall, which is free of debris and dust, is then
collected and stored. The simplest roof-washing system consists
of a standpipe and a gutter downspout located ahead of the
cistern (Appendix B). The standpipe is usually 6-8 inch PVC
equipped with a valve and a clean-out at the bottom. Once the
first part of the rainfall fills the standpipe, the rest flows to the
downspout connected to the cistern. After the rainfall, the
standpipe is drained in preparation for the next rain event. Roof-
washing systems should be designed so that at least 10 gallons
of water are diverted to the system for every 1,000 square feet
of collection area. Several types of commercial roof washers
are also available.
Storage. By making water available later when it is needed
allows full utilization of excess rainfall. Locate storage near
downspouts or at the end of the downspout. Storage can be
underground or above-ground. Storage containers can be made
of polyethylene, fiberglass, wood, or metal. Examples of above
ground containers include large garbage cans, 55-gallon plastic
or steel drums, barrels, tanks, cisterns, stock tanks, fiberglass
fishponds, storage tanks, and above ground swimming pools.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 15
22. Above ground storage buildings or large holding tanks made of
concrete block, stone, plastic bags filled with sand, or rammed
earth can also be used. Swimming pools, stock tanks, septic
tanks, ferrocement culverts, concrete block, poured in place
concrete, or building rock can be used for underground storage.
Look in the Yellow Pages under “Tanks,” “Feed Dealers,” “Septic
Tanks,” and “Swimming Pools” to locate storage containers.
Containers should be opaque and, if possible, shielded from direct
sunlight to prevent algae growth. Storage containers should be
covered to prevent mosquito breeding and debris from getting
into the storage container, secured from children and clearly
labeled as unfit for drinking. Regular inspection and maintenance
(cleaning) are essential.
Vine used to screen storage tank.
If storage is unsightly, it can be designed into the landscape by
placing it in an unobtrusive place or hiding it with a structure,
screen, and/or plants. Storage should be located close to the
area of use and placed at an elevated level to take advantage of
gravity flow. In all cases, cisterns should be placed a minimum
of four to six feet away from the foundation in case of leaks.
Ideally, on a sloped lot the storage area is located at the high
end of the property to facilitate gravity flow.
It is important to have an overflow pipe taking excess water away
from the tank when it is full. The overflow pipe should be set an
inch or so below the lip of the cistern so the water goes through
the overflow pipe instead of spilling over the lip of the cistern.
Some times it is more useful to locate several smaller cisterns
near where water is required because they are easier to
handle and camouflage.
16 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
23. Roof catchment with multiple storage cans connected
to a hose adjacent to a landscape holding area.
If the landscaped area is extensive, several tanks can be
connected to increase storage capacity. In the case that all
storage tanks become full and rainfall continues, alternative
storage for the extra water must be found. A concave lawn area
would be ideal as a overflow holding area allowing the rain water
to slowly percolate into the soil.
Estimates for the cost of storage ranges from $100 to $3,500
depending on the system, degree of filtration, and the distance
between the storage and the place of use. Underground
containers are a more expensive choice because of the cost of
soil excavation and removal. Pumping the water out of the
container adds an additional cost. Source: California Department
of Water Resources, Captured Rainfall: Small-Scale Water
Supply Systems, Bulletin 213. May 1981.
The distribution system. The distribution device can be a hose,
constructed channels, pipes, perforated pipes, or a manual drip
system that directs the water from the storage containers to
landscaped areas. Gates and diverters can be used to control
flow rate and flow direction. A manual valve or motorized ball
valve located near the bottom of the storage container can assist
gravity fed irrigation.
If gravity flow is not possible, an in-line electric pump hooked to
a hose can be used. The distribution of water through an
automatic drip irrigation system requires extra effort to work
effectively. A small submersible pump will be required to provide
enough pressure to activate the remote control valve (minimum
20 psi). To avoid burning the pump out, it should have the
capability of turning off when there is no water in the tank.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 17
24. Complex Water Harvesting System
Design & Construction
If you are designing a complex water harvesting system, one
that includes storage to provide rainwater in between rainfall
events, design your system on paper before constructing it to
save time and effort. You may not want to do any calculations,
but if you do, a more functional and efficient system will result.
The steps involved in designing a complex water harvesting
system include site analysis, calculation, design, and
construction. If the project is complicated, either because of its
size or because it has numerous catchments and planting areas,
divide the site into sub-drainage areas and repeat the following
steps for each subarea. As a final step field test the system.
Site Analysis. Whether you are starting with a new landscape
or working with an existing one, draw your site and all the site
elements to scale, then:
♦ Plot the existing drainage flow patterns by
observing your property during a rain. Show the
direction of the water flow with arrows. Indicate
high and low areas on your plan.
♦ Look for catchment areas to harvest water; for
example, paved areas, roof surfaces, and bare
earth.
♦ Find planted areas or potential planting areas that
require irrigation.
♦ Locate above or below ground storage near
planted areas.
♦ Decide how you are going to move water from
the catchment area to the holding area or storage
container. To reduce costs rely on gravity to move
water whenever you can.
♦ Decide how you are going to move the water
through the site from one landscaped area to
another landscaped area. Again, if the site is too
large or the system too complicated divide the
area into sub-drainage systems.
18 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
25. Calculate supply. First calculate the monthly supply (rainfall
harvest potential) and the monthly demand (plant water
requirement) for a year. If you are designing a more complex
system you will also need to calculate your monthly storage
requirement.
The runoff coefficient tells what percent of the rainfall can be
harvested from specific surfaces (TABLE-2). The higher
numbers represent a smoother, less absorbent surface,
therefore, greater rainwater collection potential than the lower
numbers.
Area of sloped roof — ( both sides ) Length x width.
The equation for calculating supply measures the amount of
water (in gallons) capable of being harvested from a catchment
area. The area of the catchment is expressed in square feet,
for example a 20' x 50' catchment area equals 1,000 square
feet (SF). Measure a sloped roof by measuring the area that is
covered by the roof, (both sides).
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 19
26. Area of flat roof — Length x width.
For flat roofs measure the length and width of the building. The
square footage of the catchment area is multiplied by the amount
of rainfall in inches (TABLE-3) converted to gallons to get the
volume of water.
SUPPLY (in Gallons ) = RAINFALL (inches) x 0.623
x CATCHMENT AREA ( FT2 ) x RUNOFF COEFFICIENT
TABLE - 3
ANNUAL SUPPLY
FROM ROOF CATCHMENT
Inches/Rainfall Gallons/Square Foot
0 .0
1 .6
2 1.3
3 1.9
4 2.5
5 3.1
6 3.7
7 4.4
8 5.0
9 5.6
10 6.2
11 6.8
12 7.5
13 8.1
14 8.7
15 9.3
20 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
27. TABLE - 4
AVERAGE MONTHLY RAINFALL
Tucson and Phoenix
TUCSON, ARIZONA PHOENIX, ARIZONA
Month Inches Feet Month Inches Feet
JAN 1.0 0.1 JAN 0.9 0.1
FEB 0.9 0.1 FEB 0.8 0.1
MAR 0.7 0.1 MAR 0.9 0.1
APR 0.3 0.0 APRIL 0.3 0.0
MAY 0.2 0.0 MAY 0.2 0.0
JUN 0.4 0.0 JUNE 0.1 0.0
JUL 2.0 0.2 JULY 0.9 0.1
AUG 2.3 0.2 AUG 1.0 0.1
SEPT 1.5 0.2 SEPT 0.7 0.1
OCT 1.2 0.1 OCT 0.8 0.1
NOV 0.8 0.1 NOV 0.8 0.1
DEC 1.0 0.1 DEC 0.9 0.1
TOTAL 12.3 1.0 8.3 0.9
To assist you in calculating your landscape supply and demand,
blank worksheets have been provided in Appendices E and F. A
sample supply worksheet using Tucson rainfall has been
provided (page 22) to show how monthly rainfall amounts are
calculated based on 1,000 SF of roof area.
Calculating demand. The demand equation tells you how much
water is required for a given landscaped area. There are two
methods you can use — Method 1 is used for new or established
landscapes, Method 2 can only be used for established
landscapes.
METHOD 1: The equation for calculating demand for new or
established landscapes is based on monthly evapotranspiration
(ETo) information.
ETo is an estimate of the water lost when a plant transpires or
“sweats” through its leaves plus the water evaporated from the
soil surface. ET o provides a useful reference point when
determining plant irrigation need. This value is always a percent
of ETo and varies according to the plant species.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 21
29. TABLE - 5
STANDARDIZED MONTHLY Ref. ETo
Tucson and Phoenix (Average for 1971- 2000)
TUCSON, ARIZONA PHOENIX, ARIZONA
Month Inches Feet Month Inches Feet
JAN 2.52 0.21 JAN 2.38 0.20
FEB 3.19 0.27 FEB 2.87 0.24
MAR 5.07 0.42 MAR 4.66 0.39
APR 6.82 0.57 APR 6.38 0.53
MAY 8.61 0.72 MAY 8.71 0.73
JUN 9.59 0.80 JUN 9.39 0.78
JUL 8.95 0.75 JUL 9.02 0.75
AUG 7.75 0.65 AUG 8.28 0.69
SEPT 6.68 0.56 SEPT 6.60 0.55
OCT 4.96 0.41 OCT 4.59 0.38
NOV 3.02 0.25 NOV 2.75 0.23
DEC 2.16 0.18 DEC 2.24 0.19
TOTAL 69.32 5.78 TOTAL 67.87 5.66
In Tucson the average historical ETo rate is approximately 69
inches and average rainfall is 12 inches. In Phoenix average
historical ETo is approximately 68 inches and average rainfall is
8 inches. TABLE 5 provides ETo information for Tucson and
Phoenix. Evapotranspiration rates for many additional towns
and cities in Arizona are listed in Appendix I, or may be available
from AZMET (520) 621-9742 or http://ag.arizona.edu/azmet/.
DEMAND = (ETo x PLANT FACTOR ) x AREA x 0.623
For this equation use ETo values in inches. The Plant Water Use
Factor represents the percent of ETo that is needed by the plant
(TABLE 6). This is determined by the type of plant — high,
medium, or low water use.
The irrigated area, expressed in square feet refers to how much
area is planted. The conversion factor 0.623 converts inches
into gallons. In the examples shown (Sample Demand
Worksheets for Tucson and Phoenix- pages 25 and 26), the
plants require approximately 26 percent of ETo — the high range
of low water use.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 23
30. These plant water use factors approximate what is needed to
maintain plant health and acceptable appearance. Specific plant
values (coefficients) for landscape plants are not available.
Irrigation experience tells us where plants fall within each
category.
Grouping plants with similar water requirements into separate
areas simplifies the system by making the amount of water
needed to maintain those plants easier to calculate.
Consult the Arizona Department of Water Resources Low Water
Use/Drought Tolerant Plant List s at www.water.az.gov to
determine the approximate water requirement of landscape
plants. Or, consult your local Cooperative Extension office for
irrigation requirements for plants common to your area.
TABLE - 6
PLANT WATER USE
PLANT TYPE PERCENT RANGE
High Low
Low Water Use 0.26 0.13
Medium Water Use 0.45 0.26
High Water Use 0.64 0.45
METHOD 2: Is used to determine demand for established
landscapes and is based on actual water use. Use your monthly
water bills to roughly estimate your landscape water demand.
With this method we assume that during the months of December,
January and February, most of the water is used indoors and
that there is very little landscape watering. (If you irrigate your
landscape more than occasionally during these months use
Method 1.)
To use this method average December, January, and February
water use. Many water companies measures water in ccfs (100
cubic feet).
24 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
33. Again, we assume that there is little or no outside irrigation
occurring in the winter months and indoor use remains relatively
stable throughout the year. In the following example, the
combined average winter monthly use is 9 ccf. Subtract the
winter average monthly use from each month’s combined use
(from your water bill) and get a rough estimate of monthly
landscape water use. To convert ccfs to gallons, multiply by 748.
A worksheet has been provided (Worksheet #3) in Appendix G
to calculate your monthly demand if using Method 2.
SAMPLE MONTHLY DEMAND (Method 2)
Established Landscapes - All Locations
Average Winter Use = 9 CCF Household Size = 3
Calculate storage and municipal water requirement
Use a “checkbook” method to determine the amount of irrigation
water available from water harvesting and the amount of
municipal water needed — in case there is not enough stored
rainwater in year one to supply the irrigation needs. This example
is based on the supply and demand numbers from the Sample
Supply and Demand Worksheets for Tucson pages 22 and 25.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 27
34. SAMPLE WORKSHEET
MONTHLY STORAGE and MUNICIPAL USE
Month Yield Demand Cumulative Municipal
Gallons Storage Storage Gallons Use
(yield demand)
Year 1
January 555 185 370 0
February 493 234 629 0
March 454 369 714 0
April 157 495 376 0
May 135 630 0 119
June 135 698 0 682
July 1161 653 0 174
August 1287 567 546 0
September 813 486 873 0
October 678 360 1191 0
November 376 221 1346 0
December 578 158 1766 0
Year 2
January 555 185 2136 0
February 493 234 2395 0
March 454 369 2480 0
April 157 495 2142 0
May 135 630 1647 0
June 135 698 1084 0
July 1161 653 1592 0
August 1287 567 2312 0
September 813 486 2639 0
October 678 360 2957 0
November 376 221 3112 0
December 578 158 3532 0
For simplicity, the calculations are done on a monthly basis.
However, in reality the amount of water available fluctuates on a
daily basis.
The “Storage” column is cumulative and refers to what is actually
available in storage. A given month's storage is calculated by
adding the previous month’s storage to the previous month’s
yield, minus the current month’s demand. If the remaining amount
is positive, it is placed in the Cumulative Storage column for the
current month. This number is then added to the next month’s
yield to provide for the next month’s demand.
28 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
35. If the amount of water available is negative, that is, if the demand
is greater than the supply of stored water, this number is placed
in the Municipal Use column. This indicates the amount of
supplemental water needed to satisfy irrigation water demand
for that month. During the first year there will be a deficit of
harvested water because the year begins with an empty storage
container.
However, beginning with Year 2 the storage has built up and
there will always be enough harvested water for this landscape
unless a drought occurs. The reason for this is that the winter
rainwater is not all used up in winter when evapotranspiration
rates are low, so this water can be saved for the “leaner” summer
months. You will notice in the sample worksheet (Monthly
Storage and Municipal Use) that each year the overall storage
numbers will increase slightly because supply will likely exceed
demand.
To determine storage, find the highest number in the Store
column in the Monthly Storage and Municipal Use Worksheet
for Year 2. This would be the maximum storage requirement. In
this example, December will be the month with the most water
— 3532 gallons. You will need approximately a 3600 gallon
storage capacity to be self-sufficient using harvested water.
The worksheets are for determining potential storage capacity,
they are not for weather prediction. Weather may vary from the
average at any time. Each site presents its own set of supply
and demand amounts. Some water harvesting systems may
always provide enough harvested water, some may provide only
part of the demand. Remember that the supply will fluctuate
from year to year depending on the weather and on which month
the rainfall occurs. Demand may increase when the weather is
hotter than normal and will increase as the landscape ages and
plants get larger. Demand is also high for new landscapes since
establishing new plants requires more frequent irrigation.
Final design and construction — Use your site analysis
information and your potential supply and demand calculations
to size and locate catchment areas (blank worksheets to
calculate the supply and demand for your site (Method 1 and
Method 2) are provided in Appendices F and G.
Roofs or shade structures can be designed or retrofitted to
maximize the size of the catchment area. For new construction,
design the landscape in conjunction with your home to maximize
the size of the catchment area (e.g. roof, shade structure, patios
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 29
36. and walkways) to accommodate the maximum landscape water
requirement dictated by your landscape design. If you cannot
do this you may want to reduce plant water demand by either
using fewer plants or selecting plants with lower water use
requirements.
If you are planning a new landscape, create a landscape that
can live on the amount of water harvested from the existing roof
catchment area. This can be accomplished by careful plant
selection and control of the number of plants used. For the most
efficient use of the harvested water, group plants with similar
water requirements together. Remember that new plantings,
even native plants, require special care and will need
supplemental irrigation during the establishment period which
can range between one and three years (use the supply and
demand calculations to determine this). Use gutters and
downspouts to convey the water from the roof to the storage
area. Consult the guidelines (Appendix A) for tips on selecting
and installing gutters and downspouts.
Size your storage container(s) large enough to hold your
calculated supply. Provide for distribution to all planted areas.
Water collected from any catchment area can be distributed to
any landscaped area; however, to save effort and money, locate
storage close to plants needing water and higher than the planted
area to take advantage of gravity flow.
Roof catchment with sloping driveway,
french drain and underground storage.
30 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
37. Pipes (Schedule 40 PVC), hoses, channels, and drip systems
can distribute water to where it is needed. If you do not have
gravity flow or if you are distributing through a drip system you
will need to use a small 1/2 HP pump to move the water through
the lines. Select drip irrigation system filters with 200 mesh
screens. The screen should be cleaned regularly.
If there is not enough water harvested for landscape watering,
there are several options:
• Increase the catchment area,
• Reduce the amount of landscaped area,
• Reduce the plant density,
• Replace the plants with lower water use plants,
• Use mulch to reduce surface evaporation,
• Use municipal water, or
• Use greywater- Household water collected from
bathroom sinks (not the kitchen sink), showers, and
washing machines for reuse as landscape irrigation1.
1
In Arizona residential graywater systems that produce less
than 400 gallons per day no longer require a permit from the
Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).
ADEQ does have a general use permit for graywater that
requires homeowners to follow best management practices
to comply with Arizona's rules for graywater use, for health
and safety reasons. (For further information see page 53).
In addition, you should consult your local jurisdictions (county,
city or town) for any additional regulations they may have.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 31
38. APPENDIX A - GUIDELINES
Gutters
• Select gutters that are 5 inches wide.
• Select galvanized steel (26 gauge minimum) or
aluminum (.025 inch minimum) gutters.
• Slope gutters 1/16" per 1' of gutter, to enhance
flow.
• Use an expansion joint at the connection, if a
straight run of gutter exceeds 40 feet.
• Keep the front of the gutter one-half inch lower
than the back.
• Provide gutter hangers every 3 feet.
• Do not exceed 45 degree angle bends in
horizontal pipe runs.
• Select elbows in 45, 60, 75, or 90 degree sizes.
Downspouts
• Space downspouts a minimum of 20 feet
apart, a maximum of 50 feet apart.
• Provide 1 square inch of downspout area, for
every 100 square feet of roof area.
• Select downspouts in different configurations --
square, round, and corrugated round, depending
on your needs.
• Use 4-inch diameter Schedule 40 PVC to convey
water to the storage container or filter.
32 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
39. APPENDIX B - ROOF WASHING SYSTEM
FIRST FLUSH DEVICE
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 33
40. APPENDIX C - RESIDENTIAL CISTERN DETAIL
34 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
41. APPENDIX D
CULVERT CISTERN DETAIL
Source: Scott Calhoun, ACNP and Josephine Thomason
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 35
42. Culvert Cistern Components List (refer to diagram)
QTY
1 - can PVC primer
1 - can PVC cement (glue)
1 - roll of Teflon tape or can of plumbers putty
2 - 2" x 4" x 8' pieces of lumber
1 - 3' diameter by 8' high 18 gauge galvanized culvert
25 - bags of concrete (60 lbs. each)
1 - 4' x 4' concrete reinforcing grid or rebar
4 - bricks
1 - gallon asphalt emulsion, for drinking water use
Thruoseal, or elastomeric paint instead
2 - 3/4" x 12" long galvanized pipes (threaded)
3 - 3/4" galvanized 90 degree elbows
1 - 3/4" x 18" galvanized nipple
1 - 3/4" x 2" galvanized nipple
1 - 3/4" brass ball valve w/brass coupling
(3/4" male pipe thread x 3/4" male hose thread)
2 - 1" x 10' long (schedule 40 PVC)
3 - 1" x 90 degree elbows (schedule 40 PVC)
1 - 1" slip/slip coupling (schedule 40)
Cistern Top - for a 3 foot diameter cistern
The least expensive solutions to covering the cistern are
to use either floating pool cover material (4' x 4' piece
cut to size), or to drape a (5' x 5') piece of window
screening or shade cloth over the top and secure it by
wrapping a piece of wire around the cover material,
securing it to the cistern. For a more secure and aes-
thetically pleasing cistern top use galvanized sheet
metal.
Components List for Galvanized Top
18 gauge galvanized sheet metal cut to size and
shape
3 - carriage bolts (long enough to go through the holes
in the eye bolts)
3 - wing nuts to fit carriage bolts
3 - eye bolts
6 - washers and nuts to fit eye bolts
2 - lengths of pipe insulation (approximately 6' each)
36 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
43. Water Harvesting Culvert Cistern
Instructions:
1) Determine how you will cover the cistern, if using a perma-
nent metal cover, see Culvert Top Directions, Option 3 -
before proceeding as 3 holes must be drilled in the culvert
prior to installation.
2) Starting from the bottom paint the sides (inside and out) with
asphalt emulsion 12 inches up from the bottom of the culvert.
If water is to be used for non-irrigation purposes such as for
drinking, or stock water, Thorough-Seal or elastomeric paint
should be used rather than asphalt emulsion.
3) Using pipe wrenches and Teflon tape, assemble 3/4" galva-
nized pipes for the U-shaped assembly shown in the diagram.
4) Glue together the PVC overflow assembly as shown in the
diagram.
5) Excavate a square hole 4 feet wide by 12 inches deep.
6) Place bricks (to hold up the grid or rebar) and RE grid in hole
and level.
7) Slip U-shaped galvanized supply assembly and U-shaped PVC
overflow assembly under and through the grid. Wire the two
assemblies together so they stand upright.
8) Mix cement and fill hole with 8-10 inches of concrete.
9) Taking care not to disturb the supply and overflow pipes, stand
the culvert up in the wet cement centering it in the hole.
10) Using two 2 x4 s and a level, make sure the culvert is plumb,
adjusting as needed using the 2 x 4's as braces.
11) When the cement has dried, glue the upper portion of the
overflow pipe into the slip/slip fitting near the bottom of the
culvert.
12) Direct overflow outlet away from the building.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 37
44. Culvert Top Directions:
Option 1 : Floating Cover - cut a piece of floated pool cover
material to fit the inside diameter of the culvert.
Place the cover inside the top of the culvert
cutting a hole for the overflow pipe to pass
through. The hole should be slightly larger than
the overflow pipe to allow the cover to raise and
lower easily, depending on the water level inside
the cistern.
Option 2 : Screen Cover - cut a piece of window screening
or shade cloth approximately two feet wider than
the diameter of the cistern, center the screening
or shade cloth on the cistern top and fold edges
down along the outside of the cistern and secure
it by wrapping a length of wire around the outside
of the cistern, catching all the edges of the
screen or shade cloth and twist the ends of the
wire together to assure a tight fit.
38 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
45. Option 3 : Metal Top - drill three holes evenly spaced
around the top of the cistern, approximately one
inch from the top edge. Put the eyebolts through
the predrilled holes from the outside of the
cistern and secure in place with the nuts and
washers inside the cistern. One washer should
be on the inside of the tank, the other on the
outside of the tank.
After the tank is installed, put the pipe insulation
around the edge of the tank to form a seal.
Cut a piece of 18 gauge sheet metal approxi-
mately one inch larger than the top of the cistern
all the way around (2 inches larger in diameter).
Drill holes in the sheet metal after the tank is in
place to insure the holes are lined up with the
eye bolts. Next put the carriage bolts through
the holes in the top and into the eyebolts and
secure with a wing nut.
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 39
46. APPENDIX E – Worksheet 1: Supply Calculations
A B C D E F
Follow From Multiply “A” Enter the Multiply “B” Enter the Multiply “D”
instructions A Appendix I by 0.623 square By “C.” runoff by “E.” This
through F for enter the to convert footage This is t he coefficient is the total
each month. rainfall inches to of the gross gallons for your monthly yield
amount in gallons per catchment of rainfall catchment of harvested
inches for square foot. surface. per month surface water in
each month. (page 14) gallons
January
February
March
April
May
40 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Totals
47. APPENDIX F - Worksheet 2: Demand Calculations (METHOD 1)
A B C D E F
Follow the From From Table - Mulitply “A” Multiply “C” Enter the Multiply “E”
lettered Appendix J 6, page 24 by “B” to By 0.623 to total square by “D.” This
instructions enter the enter the obtain plant convert footage of is your total
for each Eto amount plant water needs inches to landscaping. landscaping
month. for your locale demand in inches. gallons per demand in
in inches for according to square foot. gallons
each month. its water
needs.
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Totals
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 41
48. APPENDIX G - Worksheet #3
Demand Calculations (Method 2)
Month Monthly Use Average Winter Use Landscape Use Convert Landscape
in CCF from in CCF from in CCF from CCF to Use in
water bill water bill Worksheet #2 Gallons Gallons
multiply by
January 748
February 748
March 748
April 748
May 748
June 748
July 748
42 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
August 748
September 748
October 748
November 748
December 748
49. APPENDIX H - Worksheet 4: Storage and Municipal Use Calculations
Month Yield Demand Cumulative Municipal
Gallons Storage Storage Gallons Use
(yield-demand)
Year 1 January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Year 2 January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 43
50. APPENDIX I
INCHES OF AVERAGE MONTHLY RAINFALL FOR ARIZONA CITIES AND TOWNS
Bullhead City Casa Grande Chandler Douglas Flagstaff Gila Bend Holbrook Kingman
Jan 0.95 0.77 1.10 0.75 2.18 0.62 0.71 1.23
Feb 0.99 0.83 0.99 0.64 2.56 0.87 0.66 1.10
Mar 0.93 0.99 0.94 0.46 2.62 0.72 0.72 1.31
Apr 0.17 0.28 0.32 0.20 1.29 0.20 0.37 0.47
May 0.08 0.19 0.17 0.33 0.80 0.15 0.38 0.31
Jun 0.01 0.10 0.15 0.63 0.43 0.04 0.20 0.19
July 0.29 0.80 0.50 3.14 2.40 0.76 1.17 0.98
Aug 0.68 1.97 0.62 2.88 2.89 1.20 1.51 1.41
44 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
Sep 0.44 0.82 0.53 1.63 2.12 0.53 1.18 0.66
Oct 0.37 0.77 0.84 1.30 1.93 0.52 1.07 0.81
Nov 0.41 0.74 0.67 0.74 1.86 0.56 0.66 0.71
Dec 0.52 0.96 0.76 1.06 1.83 0.84 0.57 0.82
Annual 5.84 9.22 7.59 13.76 22.91 7.01 9.20 10.00
Precipitation
Normal for Period 1971 - 2000 (National Weather Service)
52. INCHES OF AVERAGE MONTHLY RAINFALL FOR ARIZONA CITIES AND TOWNS
Scottsdale Sierra Vista Springerville Tempe Tuba City Tucson Willcox Williams Yuma
Jan 1.01 1.19 0.50 1.01 0.55 0.99 1.11 2.08 0.38
Feb 1.06 0.65 0.50 1.04 0.52 0.88 0.95 2.37 0.28
Mar 0.96 0.44 0.49 1.15 0.59 0.81 0.68 2.32 0.27
Apr 0.35 0.36 0.27 0.25 0.27 0.28 0.25 1.00 0.09
May 0.17 0.26 0.45 0.21 0.32 0.24 0.35 0.80 0.05
Jun 0.11 0.38 0.53 0.07 0.17 0.24 0.40 0.48 0.02
Jul 0.99 3.01 2.52 0.89 0.66 2.07 2.36 2.54 0.23
Aug 1.05 3.85 3.11 1.20 0.69 2.30 2.59 3.01 0.61
Sep 0.87 1.29 1.49 0.86 0.98 1.45 1.27 1.73 0.26
Oct 0.97 1.16 1.08 0.85 0.85 1.21 1.36 1.77 0.26
Nov 0.88 0.45 0.57 0.80 0.43 0.67 0.73 1.75 0.14
46 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
Dec 0.99 0.98 0.48 1.03 0.32 1.03 1.30 1.52 0.42
Annual 9.41 14.02 11.99 9.36 6.35 12.17 13.35 21.37 3.01
Precipitation
Normal for Period 1971 - 2000 (National Weather Service)
53. APPENDIX J
INCHES OF AVERAGE MONTHLY EVAPOTRANSPIRATION FOR ARIZONA CITIES AND TOWNS
Bullhead Casa Grande Chandler Douglas Flagstaff Gila Bend Holbrook Kingman
Jan 2.92 2.31 2.38 3.16 1.61 2.66 1.48 2.82
Feb 3.48 3.16 2.87 3.58 1.74 3.26 2.15 3.37
Mar 5.68 5.17 4.66 5.07 2.85 4.75 3.27 4.40
Apr 7.56 7.24 6.38 6.68 4.24 6.99 4.83 6.03
May 9.78 9.55 8.71 8.67 5.79 9.24 6.87 7.87
Jun 9.97 10.28 9.39 9.72 7.09 10.18 8.09 9.40
Jul 9.24 10.00 9.02 8.10 6.46 9.78 8.10 9.56
Aug 8.35 8.75 8.28 7.31 5.63 8.76 7.20 8.44
Sep 6.63 7.00 6.60 6.58 4.64 6.95 5.81 6.89
Oct 5.33 5.18 4.59 5.41 3.21 5.40 4.06 4.96
Nov 3.67 3.00 2.75 3.64 2.13 3.36 2.34 3.53
Dec 3.30 2.14 2.24 2.82 1.74 2.48 1.48 2.48
Total 75.91 73.78 67.87 70.74 47.13 73.81 55.69 69.74
ETos (Standardized Ref. Evapotranspiration)
Yuma, Bullhead, Tucson, Phoenix computed by AZMET, Nogales, Prescott, Kingman, Williams, Payson estimated using Yitayew*
Flagstaff: computed from local weather data
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 47
* Yitayew, M. 1990. Reference Evapotranspiration Estimates for Arizona. Tech. l Bull. 266. Agr.Exp.Stn.Col. of Agr. University of Arizona
54. INCHES OF AVERAGE MONTHLY EVAPOTRANSPIRATION FOR ARIZONA CITIES AND TOWNS
Marana Mesa Nogales Page Parker Payson Phoenix Pinetop Prescott Safford
Jan 3.16 2.38 3.16 1.58 2.83 2.04 2.38 1.58 1.89 2.69
Feb 3.72 2.87 3.68 2.25 3.51 2.35 2.87 1.95 2.86 3.41
Mar 5.70 4.66 4.62 3.73 5.69 3.16 4.66 2.82 3.73 5.48
Apr 7.44 6.38 6.25 5.81 8.07 4.73 6.38 4.19 5.38 7.52
May 9.72 8.71 8.10 8.10 10.34 6.64 8.71 5.63 6.08 9.63
Jun 10.59 9.39 9.07 9.72 11.12 8.21 9.39 6.47 9.07 10.31
Jul 9.53 9.02 7.98 9.45 10.85 7.87 9.02 6.08 8.67 9.18
Aug 8.26 8.28 7.31 8.44 9.59 6.53 8.28 5.07 6.98 7.42
Sep 7.28 6.60 6.47 6.58 7.70 5.70 6.60 4.40 6.68 6.35
Oct 5.94 4.59 5.30 4.51 5.81 3.95 4.59 3.61 4.51 6.08
Nov 3.97 2.75 3.53 2.45 3.64 2.66 2.75 2.34 2.99 3.24
Dec 2.79 2.24 2.71 1.48 2.26 1.92 2.24 1.47 2.15 2.38
48 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
Total 78.10 67.87 68.19 64.10 81.41 55.77 67.87 45.59 60.99 73.69
ETos (Standardized Ref. Evapotranspiration)
Yuma, Bullhead, Tucson, Phoenix computed by AZMET, Nogales, Prescott, Kingman, Williams, Payson estimated using Yitayew*
Flagstaff: computed from local weather data
* Yitayew, M. 1990. Reference Evapotranspiration Estimates for Arizona. Tech. l Bull. 266. Agr.Exp.Stn.Col. of Agr. University of Arizona
55. INCHES OF AVERAGE MONTHLY EVAPOTRANSPIRATION FOR ARIZONA CITIES AND TOWNS
Scottsdale Sierra Vista Springerville Tempe Tuba City Tucson Willcox Williams Yuma
Jan 2.38 2.80 1.48 2.38 1.36 2.52 2.45 1.36 3.27
Feb 2.87 3.21 1.95 2.87 1.95 3.19 3.04 1.65 3.79
Mar 4.66 4.60 2.82 4.66 3.27 5.07 4.96 2.82 5.67
Apr 6.38 6.21 4.07 6.38 4.62 6.82 6.66 4.07 7.24
May 8.71 7.97 5.29 8.71 6.98 8.61 8.26 5.30 9.16
Jun 9.39 9.04 6.46 9.39 8.42 9.59 9.23 7.12 10.21
Jul 9.02 7.74 6.08 9.02 8.10 8.95 8.35 6.75 10.50
Aug 8.28 7.07 5.52 8.28 7.31 7.75 6.94 5.63 9.67
Sep 6.60 6.21 4.40 6.60 6.03 6.68 5.99 4.94 7.92
Oct 4.59 4.37 3.61 4.59 4.06 4.96 4.77 3.61 5.87
Nov 2.75 3.17 2.01 2.75 2.23 3.02 3.09 2.00 3.80
Dec 2.24 2.58 1.36 2.24 1.25 2.16 2.19 1.70 3.10
Total 67.87 64.97 45.07 67.87 55.58 69.32 65.93 46.96 80.20
ETos (Standardized Ref. Evapotranspiration)
Yuma, Bullhead, Tucson, Phoenix computed by AZMET, Nogales, Prescott, Kingman, Williams, Payson estimated using Yitayew*
Flagstaff: computed from local weather data
* Yitayew, M. 1990. Reference Evapotranspiration Estimates for Arizona. Tech. l Bull. 266. Agr.Exp.Stn.Col. of Agr. University of Arizona
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 49
56. APPENDIX K - WATER HARVESTING
RELATED RESOURCES AND CONTACTS
PUBLICATIONS ADDRESSING
WATER HARVESTING
FORGOTTEN RAIN REDISCOVERING RAINWATER
HARVESTING, by Heather Kinkade-Levario, 2003
Distributed by Rock and Water- Phoenix, Arizona
www.forgottenrain.com.
RAINWATER HARVESTING FOR DRYLANDS, “A how-to
book about welcoming rainwater into your life, landscape, and
soil.” by Brad Lancaster. Available Spring 2005.
www.harvestingrainwater.com
SECOND NATURE, Adapting LA’s Landscape For Sustainable
Living edited by Patrick Condon and Stacy Moriarty. Metropoli-
tan Water District of Southern California, 1999. Concepts such
as passive rainwater harvesting and multiuse landscaping for
sustainability are presented. TREEPEOPLE, 12601 Mulholland
Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210, http://www.treepeople.org/trees
TEXAS GUIDE TO RAINWATER HARVESTING, 2nd Ed., by
Wendy Price Todd and Gail Vittori. Texas Water Development
Board in cooperation with the Center for Maximum Potential
Building Systems, 1997. Obtain a copy by writing to Conserva-
tion, Texas Water Development Board, PO Box 13231, Austin,
TX 78711-3231. Easy to read, primer on water quality, descrip-
tive and detailed manual on how to build water harvesting
systems; includes glossary and reference section. Also avail-
able digitally at http://www.twdb.state.tx.us/assistance/conser-
vation/AlternativeTechnologies/Rainwater_Harvesting/Rain.asp
THE SUSTAINABLE BUILDING SOURCE BOOK, City of
Austin Environmental & Conservation Services Dept., Austin,
TX, 1995. Comprehensive guidebook of materials and meth-
ods of building, including information on water harvesting; lists
professional assistance, materials and systems, and general
information. Order from: Austin Energy, 721 Barton Springs
Rd., Austin, TX 78704, Phone: (512) 494-9400 Also available
digitally at:. http://www.greenbuilder.com/sourcebook/
Rainwater.html
50 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
57. WEB SITES
A LANDSCAPER’S GUIDE TO MULCH by the Alameda
County Waste Management Authority and the Alameda County
Source Reduction and Recycling Board. 777 Davis Street,
Suite 100, San Leandro, CA 94577. Email:
acwma@stopwaste.org.
Web: http://www.stopwaste.org/. Very good recycling site.
Look around the site for other good information.
American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association, Good
links and publications, especially the Forgotten Rain link.
http://www.arcsa-usa.org
DESERT WATERS - From Ancient Aquifers to Modern De-
mands by Nancy R. Laney. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum,
1998. A good short and concise publication on our water
situation in the southwest with tips on how to reduce our water
use. http://www.desertmuseum.org/books/catalogue.html
RAINWATER COLLECTION FOR THE MECHANICALLY
CHALLENGED: http://www.rainwatercollection.com/
rainwater_collection.html
STORMWATER AS A RESOURCE HOW TO HARVEST AND
PROTECT A DRYLAND TREASURE by David Morgan and
Sandy Trevathan. A brief, clear, and concise guide for harvest-
ing rain and snow on your property.
On-line copy at http://www.nmenv.state.nm.us/
swqbStorm_Water_as_a_Resource.pdf
Sustainability of semi-Arid Hydrology and Riparian Habitat,
Check out the residential water conservation page.
http://www.sahra.arizona.edu/
Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use • 51
58. RELATED RESOURCES
Arizona Native Plant Society, Box 41206, Sun Station, Tucson,
AZ 85717
Web: http://aznps.org
Bowers, Janice Emily. SHRUBS AND TREES OF THE
SOUTHWEST DESERTS. Tucson: Southwest Parks and
Monuments Association,1993
Mielke, Judy. NATIVE PLANTS FOR SOUTHWESTERN
LANDSCAPES, Austin: University of Texas Press, 1993
Nabhan, Gary Paul. GATHERING THE DESERT, Tucson:
University of Arizona Press, 1985
Native Seeds/SEARCH, 526 N. 4th Ave., Tucson, AZ 85705,
Phone: (520) 622-5591: open-pollinated, native edibles, both
domesticated and wild. Free seed available for Native Ameri-
cans
Tucson Audubon Society, 300 E. University Blvd., Suite 120,
Tucson AZ 85705. Information on avian and riparian habitat
restoration using water harvesting. Phone: (520) 206-9900
Wildlands Restoration, 2944 N. Castro, Tucson, AZ 85705,
Phone: (520) 882-0969: Drought tolerant native seed source.
Habitat restoration mixes, native grass mixes, wildflowers,
butterfly mix and others.
WATER HARVESTING CLASSES
Dawn Southwest, http://www.greenbuilder.com/dawn,
520-624-1673
Pima County Cooperative Extension, classes are held state-
wide, reservations required: Phone: (520) 626-5161
Sonoran Permaculture Guild, Water Harvesting Teachers and
Consultants, http://www.sonoranpermaculture.org
52 • Harvesting Rainwater for Landscape Use
59. Graywater
CREATE AN OASIS WITH GREYWATER, Your Complete
Guide to Choosing, Building and Using Greywater Systems 4th
Ed. Art Ludwig, published by Oasis Design, 2000.
http://www.oasisdesign.net/
HOME USE OF GRAYWATER, RAINWATER CONSERVES
WATER AND MAY SAVE MONEY, by Joe Gelt University of
Arizona. http://ag.arizona.edu/AZWATER/arroyo/071rain.html
GRAYWATER GUIDELINES, by Val Little, Water Conservation
Alliance of Southern Arizona (Water CASA).
http://www.watercasa.org
Rainwater Collection and Gray Water as Alternative Water
Supply Sources. Many good links.
http://www.geckodance.com/Family_Focus/
Rainwater_Collection.html
REGULATIONS:
USING GRAY WATER AT HOME, The Arizona Department of
Environmental Quality’s Guide to Complying with the New,
Simplified Type 1 General Permit, August 2001-Publication
No.C 01-06. www.azdeq.gov