Protecting and conserving our natural resources is more important than ever; with the earth’s rapid population growth and ongoing development, environmental stewardship through sustainable design practices is imperative. You may think, “What can I possibly do to help save the planet?” Keep in mind every little bit helps. One simple thing you can do is to control the storm water which falls on your property. There are two different methods of managing storm water, the first being rainwater harvesting and the second being groundwater recharge.

Rainwater Harvesting Systems

Rainwater harvesting systems capture rainfall from roofs and impermeable paved surfaces, storing the water for use to irrigate plantings and turf. It is important to include a filter in your design to remove dirt, pollen and bird droppings from the captured water. Clean water is then stored in covered holding tanks; covered to reduce contamination, prevent water loss through evaporation and mosquito breeding. Two common residential applications of rainwater harvesting include rain barrels and large underground cisterns.

Rain Barrels

Rain barrels are the least expensive rainwater harvesting device. Large barrels are connected to the gutters of your home, to collect the rain which falls onto your roof. Nearly 600 gallons of water can be harvested from 1,000 square feet of roof, with only 1-inch of rain! Therefore, it’s best to calculate the volume of water and plan accordingly with several barrels. Water from these barrels, can then be used in dry spells, to irrigate your planting beds; either by soaker hoses or hand watering. There is no need to worry about rain barrels overflowing, because properly built systems have an overflow pipe which directs water away from your house. However, these barrels must be drained in the winter so that the barrel doesn’t burst from freezing water.

Underground Cisterns

Underground cisterns on the other hand are unaffected by freezing weather, and can last significantly longer. These underground tanks are ideal for supplementing water for automatic irrigation systems, thus, saving you money on your utility bills. Another plus of underground cisterns is that the tanks are entirely below ground, so they do not pose as eye-sores in the landscape. These cisterns are commonly used on projects to meet LEED requirements.

Groundwater Recharge

Groundwater recharge is a valuable part of the earth’s hydrologic cycle. It involves rainwater percolating through the soil and substrate, to replenish the groundwater supply. In many areas, groundwater is being depleted at an alarming rate. As a home owner there are several ways you can help recharge the groundwater in your area; rain gardens and using permeable paving are two excellent options.

Rain Gardens

Rain gardens are an inexpensive groundwater recharging option because the soil functions as a natural storage tank. Rain gardens looks like a beautiful planting beds; the soil below ground is what makes the garden function properly. A subtle depression is filled with engineered soils and is then planted with native plants that tolerate both extremely wet and dry conditions. Roof and surface water runoff is diverted into the garden and allowed to seep slowly in to the ground. Amazingly, the native plants along with microbes breakdown harmful chemicals within the rainwater runoff, improving the water quality which will eventually replenish the groundwater. River Birch, Iris, & Cardinal Flower are a few of the many plants which thrive in rain gardens.

Permeable Pavers

Permeable pavers are becoming increasingly popular as they allow rainwater to filter back into the ground, rather than sheeting across a solid paved surface; greatly diminishing the volume of storm water runoff. The pavers void spaces house natural occurring micro-organisms which digest car oils which further benefit the environment. Many local governments offer tax rebates to encourage homeowners and businesses to install permeable driveways. Clearwater Landscape and Nursery offer several styles that meet requirements for this tax credit.

Jennifer A. Heinz-Zahner, RLA
Registered Landscape Architect
Clearwater Landscape & Nursery