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7

Steps to Rainwater Harvesting

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1. Information

Get information about rainwater harvesting here.

Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater harvesting is the accumulation and deposition of rainwater for reuse on-site, rather than allowing it to run off. Rainwater can be collected from roofs, and in many places the water collected is redirected to a deep pit (well, shaft, or borehole). Uses may include flushing of toilets and urinals inside buildings, landscape irrigation, exterior washing (e.g. carwashes, building facades, sidewalks, street sweepers, firetrucks, etc.), fire suppression (sprinkler) systems, supply for chilled water cooling towers, replenishing and operation of water features and water fountains, and laundry, if approved by the local authority. Replenishing of pools may be acceptable if special measures are taken, as approved by the appropriate regulatory authority.

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Rainwater harvesting provides an independent water supply during regional water restrictions and in developed countries is often used to supplement the main supply. It provides water when there is a drought, can help mitigate flooding of low-lying areas, and reduces demand on wells which may enable groundwater levels to be sustained. It also helps in the availability of potable water as rainwater is substantially free of salinity and other salts. Application of rainwater harvesting in urban water system provides a substantial benefit for both water supply and wastewater subsystems by reducing the need for clean water in water distribution system, less generated stormwater in sewer system, as well as a reduction in stormwater runoff polluting freshwater bodies.
Source: vaswcd.org/rainwater-harvesting - VA Soil and Water Conservation Districts.

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Do you have some useful information? Email it to us.

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2. Resources

Obtain resources for rainwater harvesting here.

We have seen several Rain Harvesting Barrels. Many of them are thinly made and some have stated this causes leaks, which defeats the purpose of having a Rain Harvesting Barrel. While some of the less attractive one may not look super attractive, they are typically thicker and do not leak. Click on this Rain Harvesting Barrel and get started harvesting.

We have seen several Rain Harvesting Barrels. Many of them are thinly made and some have stated this causes leaks, which defeats the purpose of having a Rain Harvesting Barrel. While some of the less attractive one may not look super attractive, they are typically thicker and do not leak. Click on this Rain Harvesting Barrel and get started harvesting.

We have seen several Rain Harvesting Barrels. Many of them are thinly made and some have stated this causes leaks, which defeats the purpose of having a Rain Harvesting Barrel. While some of the less attractive one may not look super attractive, they are typically thicker and do not leak. Click on this Rain Harvesting Barrel and get started harvesting.

Every home can have a rain barrel. Rain barrels store rainwater which reduces flooding and pollution. You can use the water for your garden or to wash your car to save on your utility bill!

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Please note: Elizabeth River Project is now accepting rain barrel applications for residents who reside in the Elizabeth River Watershed. Learn more at the Elizabeth River Project website.
Source: City of Norfolk

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3. Training & Education

Learn how about rainwater harvesting here.

4. Implementation

Learn how to implement that creation of your rainwater harvesting here.

5. Collaborate & Exemplify

Collaborate with people in your community to establish your rainwater harvesting and see how its done here.

Do you or will you collaborate or exemplify for your neighbors rainwater harvesting? Contact us and tell us your story!

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6. Community Champions & Partners

Learn about community champions or partners who have (or are) established a rainwater harvesting barrel or system or contribute to the establishment of such systems here.

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Are you or will you be a community champion or partner in establishing rain harvesting? Contact us and tell us your story!

7. Repeat

​If you have completed this process, complete it with your neighbor and become a community champion or partner.

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