Rainwater Collection and Distribution Systems

COMPLEX SYSTEMS

Complex Systems can be as simple as diverting water from your rain gutter to large drums or plastic garbage cans connected to a hose (or drip irrigation line) which can empty in a landscape holding area. Four on the graphic demonstrates the basics.

A flush filter and an overflow pipe are two easy - to - make additions which many homeowners might not think of adding to their rainwater collection system. They will both improve the cleanliness of your water and should be considered as essential components.

The first water off of the roof during a rain is filled with debris and silt. The flush filter, illustrated in the third graphic, fills with this water. The debris settles to the bottom of the filter. Then the cleaner water is diverted into the storage barrels or drums.

An overflow tube should also be provided and it should lead to a landscape holding area. If you use PVC pipe for your overflow tube you may want to add a "p" trap to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in your system. A hose will serve the same purpose and divert the water to plants which can use the extra water.

BE CREATIVE!

The streets of Tucumcari, where I live, have gutters, but no drains. We the rains come the streets all drain to a lake on the northeast side of town. Because of this a lot of water runs by everyone's property. Although the first rains would tend to pick up the grease and oil that naturally occurs on streets, rains during the monsoons would probably clean the streets well enough to water a lawn.

I don't know if rainwater collection from the streets is legal in my town, but it would seem an odd thing for someone to have written a city ordinance about. I'll be determining if it's legal if I buy property in town.

If you haven't taken a walk around your property during and immediately after a rain, you probably should. You can determine things such as the natural contours of the land, places where you might want to plant the thirstier plant because a small pool collects during rains. You also might find potential sources of water flowing through or near your property.

Next month I'll write about the Three Sisters I planted much as the natives in this area used. The short - 60 day corn - should be nearing or at

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