The past two weeks we have been discussing greywater and rainwater use in our yards. Last week author Brad Lancaster gave us the background on his journey to expertise in rainwater harvesting. This week he gives us the specifics on his eight principles for successful rainwater harvesting.

A quick review of last weeks article: On average up to 90% of our household municipal water that goes down the drain is actually greywater ready, we just need to get it to the landscape. Additionally, we can harvest and infiltrate thousands of gallons of rain and runoff into the soil around our home (and, by extension, the community’s watershed) over the course of our annual average rainfall. These two water sources can provide a significant amount of our landscape irrigation needs.

By shifting to living within our greywater and rainwater “budget” we can make a significant impact on our local sustainability and landscapes. As a result, we can enrich the land, create a beautiful home and neighborhood environment – and give back more than we take!

Both of Brad’s books:

Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands Vol. 1

Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond Vol. 2

are available at our YourGuidetoGreen.com online store, as well as the book Create an Oasis with Greywater. Along with our theme of showers from the sky, we’re offering you our Eco-Shower Bundle, which both the kids and your pocketbook will love!

Enjoy the rain and hey, if you enjoy reading these weekly tips and articles please forward them to a friend (use the “Share” box below and click “email”.

You can also get them hooked on our 15 Essentials for Living a Green Lifestyle ”quickie” email series. See the green “Subscribe” box in the column to the right

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