Harvesting Rainwater
Rainwater is considered the cleanest form of harvested water and can be used for toilet flushing, hose bibs, industrial applications, domestic clothes washing, irrigation, water features and other approved usages. It can generate savings by reducing utility fees charged for potable water use and sanitary sewer use. It protects our local water bodies such as the Puget Sound, Lake Union and Lake Washington by reducing combined sewer overflows during peak storm events. And, rainwater harvesting conserves water by reducing demand for potable water that is used for non-potable purposes.
Seattle's Abundant Rainwater?
The Northwest is known for its abundant rainfall. But, we actually receive less average rainfall than seemingly sunnier climates. We rank 56th in US Cities in average rainfall at 38.6 inches per year. Metropolitan areas with higher annual rainfalls include Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Houston, Memphis, Miami, New York and Philadelphia. According to the 2001 Central Puget Sound Regional Water Supply Outlook, we face significant challenges in meeting the water needs for people and fish habitat with the resources currently available.
Capturing Rainwater
There is a great do-it-yourself video that shows how to construct a rain water capturing system.
Capturing Graywater
http://oasisdesign.net/greywater/misinfo/index.htm#simple
by Darryl West, Local Green Circle, September, 2009
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