#rainwatercollection — Public Fediverse posts
Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #rainwatercollection, aggregated by home.social.
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#RhodeIsland - Some examples of #RainwaterCollection and #Cisterns being used today!
Cistern / Rain Barrel Inventory
https://dem.ri.gov/ri-stormwater-solutions/lid-and-gi/inventory/cistern-rain-barrel-01
#SolarPunkSunday #SolarPunk #BuildingDesign #WaterCollection #RainwaterCisterns #WaterIsLife #StormwaterRunoff
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#RhodeIsland - Some examples of #RainwaterCollection and #Cisterns being used today!
Cistern / Rain Barrel Inventory
https://dem.ri.gov/ri-stormwater-solutions/lid-and-gi/inventory/cistern-rain-barrel-01
#SolarPunkSunday #SolarPunk #BuildingDesign #WaterCollection #RainwaterCisterns #WaterIsLife #StormwaterRunoff
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#RhodeIsland - Some examples of #RainwaterCollection and #Cisterns being used today!
Cistern / Rain Barrel Inventory
https://dem.ri.gov/ri-stormwater-solutions/lid-and-gi/inventory/cistern-rain-barrel-01
#SolarPunkSunday #SolarPunk #BuildingDesign #WaterCollection #RainwaterCisterns #WaterIsLife #StormwaterRunoff
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#RhodeIsland - Some examples of #RainwaterCollection and #Cisterns being used today!
Cistern / Rain Barrel Inventory
https://dem.ri.gov/ri-stormwater-solutions/lid-and-gi/inventory/cistern-rain-barrel-01
#SolarPunkSunday #SolarPunk #BuildingDesign #WaterCollection #RainwaterCisterns #WaterIsLife #StormwaterRunoff
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#RhodeIsland - Some examples of #RainwaterCollection and #Cisterns being used today!
Cistern / Rain Barrel Inventory
https://dem.ri.gov/ri-stormwater-solutions/lid-and-gi/inventory/cistern-rain-barrel-01
#SolarPunkSunday #SolarPunk #BuildingDesign #WaterCollection #RainwaterCisterns #WaterIsLife #StormwaterRunoff
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#Rainwater Collecting Laws for Each State
A full list of the laws for rainwater harvesting by each state supported by links to current state legislation, government websites, and Senate, House, and Assembly Bills.
Jeremiah Zac, Updated: February 18, 2026
https://worldwaterreserve.com/is-it-illegal-to-collect-rainwater/
#US #SolarPunkSunday #RainwaterCollection #Rainbarrels #HarvestingRainwater #WaterIsLife
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Solved! What Is a #Cistern?
Learn more about how #cisterns collect water and ways the collected water can be used around the home and #garden.
By Deirdre Mundorf
Updated Nov 28, 2022 2:56 PM ESTExcerpt:
"Q: A house I’m considering buying has a cistern. I know cisterns are used for water collection, but I don’t fully understand the cistern definitions I’ve found online or what a cistern’s benefits are. What is a cistern?
A: Between worsening droughts, extreme temperatures, and high water bills in many places, homeowners are looking for alternative methods to save water and reduce their out-of-pocket costs. Enter cisterns, which allow individuals to collect rainwater for use around the home and garden. They may be a good option in rural areas, regions with frequent droughts or water usage restrictions, and homeowners looking to reduce their water bills and environmental impact.
[At the link] below are more detailed answers on what a cistern is, how the water from a cistern can be used, and some considerations to help you decide whether a home with a cistern is right for you.
A cistern is a reservoir for collecting rainwater for household or garden use.
What is a water cistern? Cisterns collect and store rainwater, allowing individuals to reuse the water for household, gardening, and other uses. How does a cistern work? While that can vary between one system and the next, the general idea is the same. When it rains, rainwater is directed through pipes to the cistern tank. Leaves, dirt, and other debris are stopped by mesh screens in the pipes, ensuring that the water that reaches the tank is as contaminant-free as possible.
Nearly all cistern tanks are installed underground. This is the ideal storage location because temperatures stay more consistent and the water and tank are protected against pests and animals."
Lear more:
https://www.bobvila.com/articles/what-is-a-cistern/#SolarPunkSunday #AncientTechnology
#ModernAdaptations #WaterIsLife #RainwaterCollection #RainwaterCisterns
#BobVila -
#RocklandME - #KnoxLincolnSoilAndWaterConservationDistrict
Annual Bin and Barrel Sale
Featuring #EarthMachine #Composters and Systern #Rainbarrels
Note: The Systern Rainbarrels are made from thinner plastic than some rainbarrels and definitely need to be stored when the weather gets cold -- or else they will crack!
https://www.knox-lincoln.org/shop/bin-barrel-sale
#SolarPunkSunday #BackyardComposters #RainwaterCollection #WaterIsLife #SoilIsLife #Compost
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Well, I just emailed our Town Manager with information about discount #RainBarrel and #Composter programs. I know one of our neighbors (who is on the Selectboard) had mentioned how composters cut down on the amount of garbage, and how many folks have home gardens and could benefit from both rainbarrels and composters! Local #SolarPunk vibes!
Maine Resource and Recovery Association:
https://mrra.net/home/products/Upcycle products:
https://upcycle-products.com/me/mwc/#SolarPunkSunday #Composters #RainbarrelProgram #Maine #ReduceWaste #ConserveWater #RainwaterCollection #HomemadeCompost
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#NapervilleIL - #TheConservationFoundation
#RainBarrels & #Composters"One simple, efficient, low-cost method to reduce the amount of #StormwaterRunoff from your property is to use rain barrels. Estimates indicate that a quarter-inch of rain falling on an average home yields over 200 gallons of water. Rain barrels are simply large containers that help conserve stormwater from your roof that would otherwise be lost as runoff. Modern rain barrels are sealed, safe around children and insect resistant – they can even be painted or decorated to your liking. You can divert water from your downspout to fill your rain barrel and a hose spigot on the front makes the water easy to access and use.
The Conservation Foundation sells rain barrels, also known as #WaterBarrels, year-round through our partnership with Upcycle Products, Inc. Our 55-gallon rain barrels are made of recycled food-grade plastic, come in a variety of colors and can be purchased for $72.00 (plus tax) for pick-up at #McDonaldFarm in Naperville.
Composters
When we compost our #KitchenScraps and #YardWaste we reduce the amount of material going to the #landfills and instead return nutrients to the #soil. The many benefits of #composting include reducing the amount of material going to landfills and adding organic matter to our #garden beds. This improves soil structure and texture, increases the soil’s ability to hold both water and air, improves soil fertility, and stimulates healthy root development in plants. And it saves you money so you don’t have to buy chemical fertilizers!
Upcycle compost bins (stationary and tumbling) are the same size as the 55 gallon rain barrel, approximately 2 ft by 3.5 ft (the base of the tumbling composter requires a 3 x 4 ft area). The bins are re-purposed BPA-free food grade plastic barrels."
FMI and to order:
https://theconservationfoundation.org/conservation-home/rain-barrels/#SolarPunkSunday #Illinois #Composters #RainwaterCollection #WaterIsLife #SoilIsLife
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#NapervilleIL - #TheConservationFoundation
#RainBarrels & #Composters"One simple, efficient, low-cost method to reduce the amount of #StormwaterRunoff from your property is to use rain barrels. Estimates indicate that a quarter-inch of rain falling on an average home yields over 200 gallons of water. Rain barrels are simply large containers that help conserve stormwater from your roof that would otherwise be lost as runoff. Modern rain barrels are sealed, safe around children and insect resistant – they can even be painted or decorated to your liking. You can divert water from your downspout to fill your rain barrel and a hose spigot on the front makes the water easy to access and use.
The Conservation Foundation sells rain barrels, also known as #WaterBarrels, year-round through our partnership with Upcycle Products, Inc. Our 55-gallon rain barrels are made of recycled food-grade plastic, come in a variety of colors and can be purchased for $72.00 (plus tax) for pick-up at #McDonaldFarm in Naperville.
Composters
When we compost our #KitchenScraps and #YardWaste we reduce the amount of material going to the #landfills and instead return nutrients to the #soil. The many benefits of #composting include reducing the amount of material going to landfills and adding organic matter to our #garden beds. This improves soil structure and texture, increases the soil’s ability to hold both water and air, improves soil fertility, and stimulates healthy root development in plants. And it saves you money so you don’t have to buy chemical fertilizers!
Upcycle compost bins (stationary and tumbling) are the same size as the 55 gallon rain barrel, approximately 2 ft by 3.5 ft (the base of the tumbling composter requires a 3 x 4 ft area). The bins are re-purposed BPA-free food grade plastic barrels."
FMI and to order:
https://theconservationfoundation.org/conservation-home/rain-barrels/#SolarPunkSunday #Illinois #Composters #RainwaterCollection #WaterIsLife #SoilIsLife
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#NapervilleIL - #TheConservationFoundation
#RainBarrels & #Composters"One simple, efficient, low-cost method to reduce the amount of #StormwaterRunoff from your property is to use rain barrels. Estimates indicate that a quarter-inch of rain falling on an average home yields over 200 gallons of water. Rain barrels are simply large containers that help conserve stormwater from your roof that would otherwise be lost as runoff. Modern rain barrels are sealed, safe around children and insect resistant – they can even be painted or decorated to your liking. You can divert water from your downspout to fill your rain barrel and a hose spigot on the front makes the water easy to access and use.
The Conservation Foundation sells rain barrels, also known as #WaterBarrels, year-round through our partnership with Upcycle Products, Inc. Our 55-gallon rain barrels are made of recycled food-grade plastic, come in a variety of colors and can be purchased for $72.00 (plus tax) for pick-up at #McDonaldFarm in Naperville.
Composters
When we compost our #KitchenScraps and #YardWaste we reduce the amount of material going to the #landfills and instead return nutrients to the #soil. The many benefits of #composting include reducing the amount of material going to landfills and adding organic matter to our #garden beds. This improves soil structure and texture, increases the soil’s ability to hold both water and air, improves soil fertility, and stimulates healthy root development in plants. And it saves you money so you don’t have to buy chemical fertilizers!
Upcycle compost bins (stationary and tumbling) are the same size as the 55 gallon rain barrel, approximately 2 ft by 3.5 ft (the base of the tumbling composter requires a 3 x 4 ft area). The bins are re-purposed BPA-free food grade plastic barrels."
FMI and to order:
https://theconservationfoundation.org/conservation-home/rain-barrels/#SolarPunkSunday #Illinois #Composters #RainwaterCollection #WaterIsLife #SoilIsLife
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#NapervilleIL - #TheConservationFoundation
#RainBarrels & #Composters"One simple, efficient, low-cost method to reduce the amount of #StormwaterRunoff from your property is to use rain barrels. Estimates indicate that a quarter-inch of rain falling on an average home yields over 200 gallons of water. Rain barrels are simply large containers that help conserve stormwater from your roof that would otherwise be lost as runoff. Modern rain barrels are sealed, safe around children and insect resistant – they can even be painted or decorated to your liking. You can divert water from your downspout to fill your rain barrel and a hose spigot on the front makes the water easy to access and use.
The Conservation Foundation sells rain barrels, also known as #WaterBarrels, year-round through our partnership with Upcycle Products, Inc. Our 55-gallon rain barrels are made of recycled food-grade plastic, come in a variety of colors and can be purchased for $72.00 (plus tax) for pick-up at #McDonaldFarm in Naperville.
Composters
When we compost our #KitchenScraps and #YardWaste we reduce the amount of material going to the #landfills and instead return nutrients to the #soil. The many benefits of #composting include reducing the amount of material going to landfills and adding organic matter to our #garden beds. This improves soil structure and texture, increases the soil’s ability to hold both water and air, improves soil fertility, and stimulates healthy root development in plants. And it saves you money so you don’t have to buy chemical fertilizers!
Upcycle compost bins (stationary and tumbling) are the same size as the 55 gallon rain barrel, approximately 2 ft by 3.5 ft (the base of the tumbling composter requires a 3 x 4 ft area). The bins are re-purposed BPA-free food grade plastic barrels."
FMI and to order:
https://theconservationfoundation.org/conservation-home/rain-barrels/#SolarPunkSunday #Illinois #Composters #RainwaterCollection #WaterIsLife #SoilIsLife
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#NapervilleIL - #TheConservationFoundation
#RainBarrels & #Composters"One simple, efficient, low-cost method to reduce the amount of #StormwaterRunoff from your property is to use rain barrels. Estimates indicate that a quarter-inch of rain falling on an average home yields over 200 gallons of water. Rain barrels are simply large containers that help conserve stormwater from your roof that would otherwise be lost as runoff. Modern rain barrels are sealed, safe around children and insect resistant – they can even be painted or decorated to your liking. You can divert water from your downspout to fill your rain barrel and a hose spigot on the front makes the water easy to access and use.
The Conservation Foundation sells rain barrels, also known as #WaterBarrels, year-round through our partnership with Upcycle Products, Inc. Our 55-gallon rain barrels are made of recycled food-grade plastic, come in a variety of colors and can be purchased for $72.00 (plus tax) for pick-up at #McDonaldFarm in Naperville.
Composters
When we compost our #KitchenScraps and #YardWaste we reduce the amount of material going to the #landfills and instead return nutrients to the #soil. The many benefits of #composting include reducing the amount of material going to landfills and adding organic matter to our #garden beds. This improves soil structure and texture, increases the soil’s ability to hold both water and air, improves soil fertility, and stimulates healthy root development in plants. And it saves you money so you don’t have to buy chemical fertilizers!
Upcycle compost bins (stationary and tumbling) are the same size as the 55 gallon rain barrel, approximately 2 ft by 3.5 ft (the base of the tumbling composter requires a 3 x 4 ft area). The bins are re-purposed BPA-free food grade plastic barrels."
FMI and to order:
https://theconservationfoundation.org/conservation-home/rain-barrels/#SolarPunkSunday #Illinois #Composters #RainwaterCollection #WaterIsLife #SoilIsLife
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100-Year-Old Way to Filter #Rainwater in a Barrel
by Linda Holliday
February 25, 2015"During our boiling, broiling, blistering summer of 2012 here in the Missouri Ozarks, water was a topic of conversation wherever we went. Creeks and ponds dried up (some never recovered) and the water table dropped, forcing a few neighbors to have their well pumps lowered or to even have deeper wells drilled.
"Many folks shared memories of rain barrels, cisterns, hand pumps and drawing water with a well bucket as a child, usually on grandpa and grandma’s farm. Some said they’d never want to rely again on those old-time methods of getting water. But, at least they knew how it was done.
"It seems we have lost much practical knowledge in the last 50 or so years because we thought we’d never need it again. Now we are scrambling to relearn those simple know-hows.
"A tattered, 4-inch thick, 1909 book I happily secured for $8 in a thrift store reveals, among umpteen-thousand other every-day skills, how to make homemade water filters. The instructions in 'Household Discoveries and Mrs. Curtis’s Cookbook' are quite basic as everyone had a rain barrel back then and presumably knew how to clean the water. Now, 104 years later, I am thankful the authors had the foresight to preserve their knowledge for us, and pointed out that rainwater collected in barrels from a roof is a necessity in some locations, but also is best for laundry and 'often more wholesome for drinking purposes than hard water.' "
Learn more:
https://www.askaprepper.com/way-filter-rainwater-barrel/#SolarPunkSunday #WaterFiltration #Rainwater #RainwaterCollection #WaterIsLife #WaterSystems #OldSchoolTechnology #NeoLuddite #OldWays
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100-Year-Old Way to Filter #Rainwater in a Barrel
by Linda Holliday
February 25, 2015"During our boiling, broiling, blistering summer of 2012 here in the Missouri Ozarks, water was a topic of conversation wherever we went. Creeks and ponds dried up (some never recovered) and the water table dropped, forcing a few neighbors to have their well pumps lowered or to even have deeper wells drilled.
"Many folks shared memories of rain barrels, cisterns, hand pumps and drawing water with a well bucket as a child, usually on grandpa and grandma’s farm. Some said they’d never want to rely again on those old-time methods of getting water. But, at least they knew how it was done.
"It seems we have lost much practical knowledge in the last 50 or so years because we thought we’d never need it again. Now we are scrambling to relearn those simple know-hows.
"A tattered, 4-inch thick, 1909 book I happily secured for $8 in a thrift store reveals, among umpteen-thousand other every-day skills, how to make homemade water filters. The instructions in 'Household Discoveries and Mrs. Curtis’s Cookbook' are quite basic as everyone had a rain barrel back then and presumably knew how to clean the water. Now, 104 years later, I am thankful the authors had the foresight to preserve their knowledge for us, and pointed out that rainwater collected in barrels from a roof is a necessity in some locations, but also is best for laundry and 'often more wholesome for drinking purposes than hard water.' "
Learn more:
https://www.askaprepper.com/way-filter-rainwater-barrel/#SolarPunkSunday #WaterFiltration #Rainwater #RainwaterCollection #WaterIsLife #WaterSystems #OldSchoolTechnology #NeoLuddite #OldWays
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100-Year-Old Way to Filter #Rainwater in a Barrel
by Linda Holliday
February 25, 2015"During our boiling, broiling, blistering summer of 2012 here in the Missouri Ozarks, water was a topic of conversation wherever we went. Creeks and ponds dried up (some never recovered) and the water table dropped, forcing a few neighbors to have their well pumps lowered or to even have deeper wells drilled.
"Many folks shared memories of rain barrels, cisterns, hand pumps and drawing water with a well bucket as a child, usually on grandpa and grandma’s farm. Some said they’d never want to rely again on those old-time methods of getting water. But, at least they knew how it was done.
"It seems we have lost much practical knowledge in the last 50 or so years because we thought we’d never need it again. Now we are scrambling to relearn those simple know-hows.
"A tattered, 4-inch thick, 1909 book I happily secured for $8 in a thrift store reveals, among umpteen-thousand other every-day skills, how to make homemade water filters. The instructions in 'Household Discoveries and Mrs. Curtis’s Cookbook' are quite basic as everyone had a rain barrel back then and presumably knew how to clean the water. Now, 104 years later, I am thankful the authors had the foresight to preserve their knowledge for us, and pointed out that rainwater collected in barrels from a roof is a necessity in some locations, but also is best for laundry and 'often more wholesome for drinking purposes than hard water.' "
Learn more:
https://www.askaprepper.com/way-filter-rainwater-barrel/#SolarPunkSunday #WaterFiltration #Rainwater #RainwaterCollection #WaterIsLife #WaterSystems #OldSchoolTechnology #NeoLuddite #OldWays
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100-Year-Old Way to Filter #Rainwater in a Barrel
by Linda Holliday
February 25, 2015"During our boiling, broiling, blistering summer of 2012 here in the Missouri Ozarks, water was a topic of conversation wherever we went. Creeks and ponds dried up (some never recovered) and the water table dropped, forcing a few neighbors to have their well pumps lowered or to even have deeper wells drilled.
"Many folks shared memories of rain barrels, cisterns, hand pumps and drawing water with a well bucket as a child, usually on grandpa and grandma’s farm. Some said they’d never want to rely again on those old-time methods of getting water. But, at least they knew how it was done.
"It seems we have lost much practical knowledge in the last 50 or so years because we thought we’d never need it again. Now we are scrambling to relearn those simple know-hows.
"A tattered, 4-inch thick, 1909 book I happily secured for $8 in a thrift store reveals, among umpteen-thousand other every-day skills, how to make homemade water filters. The instructions in 'Household Discoveries and Mrs. Curtis’s Cookbook' are quite basic as everyone had a rain barrel back then and presumably knew how to clean the water. Now, 104 years later, I am thankful the authors had the foresight to preserve their knowledge for us, and pointed out that rainwater collected in barrels from a roof is a necessity in some locations, but also is best for laundry and 'often more wholesome for drinking purposes than hard water.' "
Learn more:
https://www.askaprepper.com/way-filter-rainwater-barrel/#SolarPunkSunday #WaterFiltration #Rainwater #RainwaterCollection #WaterIsLife #WaterSystems #OldSchoolTechnology #NeoLuddite #OldWays
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100-Year-Old Way to Filter #Rainwater in a Barrel
by Linda Holliday
February 25, 2015"During our boiling, broiling, blistering summer of 2012 here in the Missouri Ozarks, water was a topic of conversation wherever we went. Creeks and ponds dried up (some never recovered) and the water table dropped, forcing a few neighbors to have their well pumps lowered or to even have deeper wells drilled.
"Many folks shared memories of rain barrels, cisterns, hand pumps and drawing water with a well bucket as a child, usually on grandpa and grandma’s farm. Some said they’d never want to rely again on those old-time methods of getting water. But, at least they knew how it was done.
"It seems we have lost much practical knowledge in the last 50 or so years because we thought we’d never need it again. Now we are scrambling to relearn those simple know-hows.
"A tattered, 4-inch thick, 1909 book I happily secured for $8 in a thrift store reveals, among umpteen-thousand other every-day skills, how to make homemade water filters. The instructions in 'Household Discoveries and Mrs. Curtis’s Cookbook' are quite basic as everyone had a rain barrel back then and presumably knew how to clean the water. Now, 104 years later, I am thankful the authors had the foresight to preserve their knowledge for us, and pointed out that rainwater collected in barrels from a roof is a necessity in some locations, but also is best for laundry and 'often more wholesome for drinking purposes than hard water.' "
Learn more:
https://www.askaprepper.com/way-filter-rainwater-barrel/#SolarPunkSunday #WaterFiltration #Rainwater #RainwaterCollection #WaterIsLife #WaterSystems #OldSchoolTechnology #NeoLuddite #OldWays
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#AllianceForTheChesapeakeBay - #RiverSmart Homes: #RainBarrels
"Funded by the District’s Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), the RiverSmart Homes Rain Barrel program helps reduce #stormwater runoff in #WashingtonDC, improving the quality of local #streams and #waterways. Residents of the District can receive up to three reduced-cost barrels, information about stormwater issues, and signage for their yard. In addition, the Alliance coordinates and trains local contractors to install rain barrels in the city.
By aiding in the coordination and installation of barrels, the program allows for easy and accessible environmental solutions on your property!"
Learn more:
https://www.allianceforthebay.org/project/riversmart/riversmart-homes-rain-barrels/#SolarPunkSunday #DC #ChesapeakeBay #RainbarrelProgram #WaterCollection #WaterIsLife #RainwaterCollection
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#PortAransasTX - Discounted #RainBarrel program offered
February 12, 2026
"With the continued drought and increased water restrictions, Keep Port Aransas Beautiful (#KPAB), the Nueces County Water Control and Improvement District No. 4 and the #PortAransas Tourism Bureau and Chamber of Commerce are offering an opportunity to conserve water resources.
Port Aransas homeowners and residents may purchase rain barrels at a discounted price through this program.
Nueces County water customers can purchase a limit of two rain barrels for the discounted price of $66. Additional rain barrels can be ordered for $88 each.
The deadline to order the barrels is Monday, March 30.
The rain barrels will be distributed from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 11, at the water district parking lot.
The water district is located at 200 Howard Blvd.
'Collecting rainwater is a great way to conserve a natural resource and keep water clean,' said a news release from KPAB."
Source:
https://www.portasouthjetty.com/articles/discounted-rain-barrel-program-offered/The rain barrels may be purchased directly through the program’s website, https://www.rainwatersolutions.com/products/portaransas, using a credit or debit card.
#SolarPunkSunday #WaterCollection #Rainbarrels #HarvestingRainwater #RainwaterCollection #Texas #Drought #ClimateChange
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#MassDEP - #RainBarrels and Other Water Conservation Tools
"Rain barrels are a great way to conserve water and reduce storm water runoff. Use the collected water for household chores.
Table of Contents
- What are rain barrels?
- Why use rain barrels?
- How do I install a rain barrel?
- Where can I get a manufactured rain barrel?
- How else can I conserve water?What are rain barrels?
Rain barrels are containers used to collect rain water from the roof of a building via the gutter and downspout. The downspout is cut to a height that permits the rain water to flow into a barrel placed beneath it. The barrel should have a spigot to which a hose may be attached, and an overflow hose to direct rain water away from the foundation if rain continues after the barrel is full. Rain barrels are often made from 55-gallon food-grade plastic barrels, although they can also be made of wood. The collected water can be used to water gardens or lawns, wash cars, fill swimming pools or do other household chores.
Why use rain barrels?
Conserve water and reduce stormwater runoff: In the summer months, outdoor tasks such as watering lawns and gardens typically make up about 40% of household water use. With seasonal droughts, restrictions and bans on lawn watering, and the increasing cost of water, it makes sense to use rain water instead of municipal water for outdoor uses. Unless it is collected, rain water runs off impervious surfaces, such as roofs and pavement, gathering pollutants which often end up in local streams, rivers, pond, lakes and marine waters. Keeping and using rain water on your property helps reduce pollution, erosion and improves local watershed health.
Water quantity: Just 1/4 inch of rainfall on a typical roof will fill a rain barrel. A modest amount of rainfall can supply much or all of your outdoor watering needs - a full rain barrel will water a 200 square foot garden. A good rule of thumb is that 1 inch of rain on a 1000 sq ft roof yields 623 gallons of water. You can calculate the yield of your roof by multiplying the square footage of your roof by 623 and dividing by 1000.
Water quality: Rain water is 'soft, or free from minerals and chemicals such as chlorine, fluoride, and calcium that are often present in municipal water. Rain water is considered ideal for watering plants or washing cars and windows."
Learn more:
https://www.mass.gov/guides/rain-barrels-and-other-water-conservation-tools#SolarPunkSunday #RainBarrels #RainwaterHarvesting #RainwaterCollection #WaterIsLife
#ReduceStormwaterRunoff -
US #EPA - #SoakUpTheRain Program for #NewEngland: #RainBarrels
Last updated on January 13, 2026
"Rain barrels capture water from a roof and hold it for later use such as on lawns, gardens or indoor plants. Collecting roof runoff in rain barrels reduces the amount of water that flows from your property. It's a great way to conserve water and it's free water for use in your landscape.
Many cities and towns distribute rain barrels to residents through annual sales. Other sources include online retailers, local home and garden supply stores. Cisterns are also used to 'harvest' rain water. With a greater storage capacity they may be located above or below ground.
#RainwaterHarvesting, U.S. EPA Green Infrastructure
Note: Remember that as rain water flows over a roof surface it can pick up pollutants such as bacteria from birds and other animals, and chemicals from roof materials - factors to consider when thinking about using rain barrel water on edible plantings. Some links with information and suggestions are included below:
- Rain Barrels Part IV: Testing and Applying #HarvestedWater to Irrigate a Vegetable Garden, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, 2013
- The Importance of Operation and Maintenance for the Long-Term Success of Green Infrastructure, U.S. EPA, 2013
- Appendix A includes information about rain barrels and #cisterns.Information About Rain Barrels
Local resources for:
#Connecticut
#Maine
#Massachusetts
#NewHampshire
#RhodeIsland
#Vermont "Read more:
https://www.epa.gov/soakuptherain/soak-rain-rain-barrels#SolarPunkSunday #RainwaterCollection #RainwaterCollection #RainWaterHarvesting #WaterIsLife #WaterSystems
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#Cistern #WaterSystems: How They Work and Why They’re Useful
By Robert Maxwell
Updated on Sep. 26, 2025"Has your interest in alternative water systems made you ask, what is a cistern? Read on to learn about this ancient way to store and supply water.
The basic idea of a cistern water system, which collects and stores water in or near a home, goes back centuries. In some parts of #WesternAsia, archeologists discovered lime plaster cisterns in the floors of houses that were at least 5,000 years old. Ancient #Romans also used cisterns beneath their houses to catch, filter and store #rainwater.
A cistern is a closed tank, somewhat like a septic tank, but the similarities end there. Instead of sewage, it collects rainwater for household use or irrigation. A home with a well might have a large tank to store water to prevent the well pump from having to work all the time. In some cases, you could consider that tank a cistern, but according to longtime plumber Danny Pen, most cisterns are buried."
Read more:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/what-is-a-cistern-water-system/#SolarPunkSunday #AncientTechnology #ModernAdaptations #Cistern #WaterIsLife #RainwaterCollection #RainwaterCisterns
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The Crane Estate in #IpswichMA, which is on a hill, used a cistern system to collect and store rainwater for the entire household and their gardens!
#ThisOldHouse - What Is a #Cistern?
A cistern is a water storage system used in homes and landscapes. Learn how they work and when you might need one.
updated 6/25/2025
"A cistern is an underground tank that captures and stores rainwater that you can use for irrigation, emergencies, or daily water needs. Cisterns are especially helpful in areas with unreliable or expensive municipal water systems. We’ll explore the different types of cisterns, describe the benefits each offers, and explain how cisterns differ from wells in the guide below.
Definition of a Cistern
A cistern is a watertight tank that collects and stores water for later use and is typically made of reinforced concrete, cinder block, precast concrete, fiberglass, and steel. Your home’s gutters and downspouts usually funnel rainwater into your cistern, and you can use that water as a supplemental supply, an emergency supply, or for irrigation. Cisterns can also hold groundwater, household greywater, spring water, well water, or treated city water.
Professionals can install cisterns above ground, underground, or into building structures. Burying cisterns underground might be the best option, though, as underground cisterns keep water cool during warm months and prevent it from freezing during colder weather.
Cisterns intended for domestic use typically hold at least 5,000 gallons, but sizes and setups vary according to homeowners’ needs."
Learn more:
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/plumbing/what-is-a-cistern#SolarPunkSunday #AncientTechnology #ModernAdaptations #WaterIsLife #RainwaterCollection #RainwaterCisterns
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Or one could #DIY... I keep one of my rainbarrels on a platform, and it helps with water flow!
Best Stands for #RainBarrels to Maximize #WaterHarvesting
Post published:February 13, 2026
"Raising a rain barrel off the ground improves access to the spigot, enhances drainage, and protects the barrel from damp ground. This guide highlights reliable stands designed for 45, 50, and 55-gallon barrels, focusing on durability, load capacity, and weather resistance. The selections below draw from top-rated options that balance robustness with practical design, helping you choose a stand that fits your weather, terrain, and watering needs."
Learn more (Contains affiliate links):
https://theyogicgarden.com/best-stand-for-rain-barrel/#SolarPunkSunday #WaterHarvesters #RainwaterCollection #RainwaterHarvesting #WaterCollection #Gardening #Rainwater #WaterIsLife
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Some good tips here...
How to Set Up a #RainwaterCollection System & 8 #DIY Ideas
Written by Author Lindsay Sheehan Published on March 26, 2021
"This technology can be traced back some 12,000 years in human history, and it makes just as much sense today to take advantage of a precious resource that freely falls from above.
The simplest #RainwaterHarvesting system involves a basic #RainBarrel situated next to your home.
[...]
Gutters made from coated aluminum and vinyl are the best choice for rainwater collection. Galvanized steel gutters are suitable for non-potable systems.
Avoid using gutters made with copper or lead materials."
Learn more:
https://www.ruralsprout.com/rainwater-collection/#SolarPunkSunday #Rainwater #WaterIsLife #WaterHarvesters #RainHarvest #ClimateChangeGardening
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#RainHarvestUtah
Free. Legal. Water."The #Utah Rivers Council is excited to continue our #RainHarvest program in 2026! We are partnering with municipalities, offering deeply discounted rain barrels in communities across the Wasatch Front!
#UtahRiversCouncil offers residents the opportunity to affordably conserve water through rainwater collection. By purchasing heavily discounted rain collection barrels through URC’s annual #RainHarvest program, Utahns can heavily reduce municipal water demand and help improve the water quality of local streams, rivers and lakes by decreasing polluted runoff.
Isn’t rainwater harvesting illegal in Utah?As of 2010, all Utahns are allowed to legally collect up to 2,500 gallons of rainwater on their property in covered above ground containers or in underground cisterns. If a residence is collecting rain water in more than two containers under 100 gallons or in one container above 100 gallons, they must register with the State Engineer. The process is free and can be completed in just a few minutes online.
Top 7 ways to use water collected via RainHarvest:
- Use captured rain to irrigate your lawn, garden, or outside planters. You can even use it to water your indoor plants.
- Use water to supplement your drip irrigation system.
- Wash your car, bike, mailboxes, and other exterior fixtures with collected water.
- Utilize captured rainwater to wash out recyclable bottles and cans before putting them in your recycling bin and put the water on your outdoor plants after you are finished.
- Irrigate ornamental trees and plants.
- Use reclaimed water to rinse off your artificial grass [!!!] after your dog goes to the bathroom.
- Give your trees and shrubs a deep water to help them through the winter as you empty your rain barrel in the fall before putting it away for the season."FMI (with pricing):
https://utahrivers.org/rainharvest#SolarPunkSunday #RainwaterCollection #RainwaterHarvesting #DiscountRainbarrels #Rainbarrels #WaterIsLife
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So, before I start posting about #RainwaterCollection and #RainwaterHarvesting, I wanted to point out that while collecting rainwater is legal in most countries (though there can be local restrictions/regulations), there are some states in the #UnitedStates that restrict or prohibit #Rainwater collection.
Can You Go To Jail for Collecting Rainwater?
By Kiersten Hickman
Updated on Nov. 24, 2023It's fine in most states, but some have stricter rules!
"While most states permit rainwater harvesting and some even encourage it, other states have specific rules and regulations around the topic. These states specify the uses of the water. For example, if the water can be collected for “non-potable” purposes, it means the water is not suitable for drinking but can be used for other things. Potable means it’s safe for drinking, cooking and bathing.
Here are a few with specific rules governing rainwater harvesting.
- #Alaska (rainwater okay, but groundwater is regulated)
- #Arkansas (legal with some regulation)
- #California (legal unless using it for landscaping)
- #Colorado (limited to 110 gallons per day)
- #Illinois (legal with some regulation)
- #Kansas (#WaterRights required, except for domestic use)
- #Louisiana (#cisterns must have covers)
- #Nevada (used to be illegal, but is legal with some restrictions
- #NorthCarolina (regulated)
- #Ohio (regulated for drinking)
- #Oregon (no longer illegal)
- #Texas (regulated)
- #Utah (rules about amounts)
- #WashingtonState (strict rules)Learn more:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/collecting-rain-water-in-these-states-could-be-illegal/More about the status of individual states:
https://4perfectwater.com/blog/rainwater-harvesting-laws#SolarPunkSunday #WaterIsLife #WaterCollection #UnitedStates
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It’s the 5th anniversary of the day that @joeyomahoney and I closed on our house. I felt hesitant about homeownership because of the responsibility and because I’d never taken a loan from a bank before. Now, I see it as an enormous privilege and an opportunity to create a microcosm of the world we’d like to see. #EdibleLandscape #NativePlants #Pollinators #RainwaterCollection #Solar #ChipDrop #KillYourLawn #gardening
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Taking a break to water the plants using #rainwater. Keeping one's #RainBarrel clean is essential to having good rainwater! And I've found that if mosquitoes are an issue, a light layer of olive oil (I save old, rancid olive oil for this purpose) can smother mosquito larvae. Natural dish soap does the same thing, without causing harm to plants.
Now, this article mentions using goldfish in one's rainbarrel. Ummmm... But, vegetable oils and natural soap will work (and so would #BTDunks )!
How To Control Mosquitoes In A Rain Barrel
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/mosquito-control-in-rain-barrels.htm
#SolarPunkSunday #NaturalPestControl #RainwaterCollection #Gardening #ClimateChangeGardening #RainBarrell
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#Mainers - Unfortunately, the deadline for purchasing this year has passed. But bug your municipality about buying in bulk for next year! [Similar programs exist in other states... I'll take a look-see after posting this.]
Maine Resource Recovery Association -
#Recycling and Solid Waste Management2025 Spring Backyard #Composting Supply Sale
It's that time of year again! Put in your bulk order today!
Backyard Composting Supplies
- Kitchen Pail
Collect food scraps for easy transfer to your compost bin.- Lobster Trap Composter
Available in both a 3 and 4 foot size. Ideal for grass clippings, leaves, garden and food scraps. Comes with rings to assemble. Hog ring pliers are also available to order. MADE IN MAINE.- REOTEMP Thermometer
Designed with a 20 inch stem this device is perfect for monitoring the interior temperature of your compost.- #EarthMachine [I own two of these...]
80 gallon composting bin that converts, grass, leaves, and table scraps into an abundant supply of rich garden soil.- Wingdigger
Use this handy tool to turn your compost. [I use a garden fork for that]- #RainBarrell
55 gallon capacity, collects rain water for your garden.- Backyard #Compost Guide
#Recycling Containers and Carts
roll offs- Recycling Carts
Easy handling curbside cart comes in 35, 64, 96 gallon sizes. Carts have excellent balance and stability. They are available in various colors.- Recycling Bin
18 gallon curbside recycler for paper, cans, glass, plastics, etc. Holds up to 80 pounds, and allows for drainage of any liquids.Contact us to order."
https://mrra.net/home/products/
#SolarpunkSunday #Composting
#ReducingWaste #Landfills
#Maine #Recycling #MRRA #BackyardComposting #FoodWaste #FoodWasteComposting #RainwaterCollection
