Rainwater Harvesting: Water Storage Tanks

Not all farmers harvest edible crops. Some of us make the most of Mother Nature’s bounty, and harvest rainwater!

Nature’s Best For A Sustainable Future

Have you ever wondered why your garden looks so vibrant and green after a refreshing rainfall? Well, there's some fascinating chemistry happening in the air that contributes to this beautiful transformation. 

You see, rainwater carries a special blend of elements, and one of them is nitrogen, the key ingredient that makes plants lush and green. When it rains, some of this nitrogen gets absorbed by plants through their roots and leaves. But did you know that rainwater offers even more benefits beyond making your garden flourish? 

Rainwater collection goes beyond water conservation, it allows you to store a reserve of high-quality water for various uses, including irrigation.

Let's explore some of the advantages of rainwater over tap water, from its purity and chemical composition to its cost-saving potential and positive environmental impact. 

Purity 

Rainwater is generally considered to be purer than tap water because it does not go through the treatment processes that tap water undergoes. It is naturally free from many contaminants found in tap water, such as chlorine and fluoride.

Chemical Composition

Rainwater has a slightly acidic pH, which can be beneficial for certain plants and soils that thrive in acidic conditions. It can also contain trace elements and minerals that are beneficial for plant growth.

Softness

Rainwater is naturally soft, meaning it has a lower mineral content compared to hard water sources. This can be advantageous for various applications, such as watering sensitive plants, washing cars, or using it in household appliances like humidifiers or steam irons, as it reduces the build-up of mineral deposits. Using rainwater as rinse water when you wash your hair can also make your locks feel a whole lot softer.

Cost-saving

Collecting and using rainwater for irrigation purposes can help reduce reliance on treated tap water, leading to potential cost savings on water bills, especially in regions where water is expensive.

Environmental Impact

Using rainwater for irrigation reduces the strain on local water supplies and can contribute to water conservation efforts. It also helps to reduce stormwater runoff, which can carry pollutants and cause water pollution.

Conclusion

However, it's worth noting that rainwater collection systems should be properly designed, maintained, and filtered to ensure the water's safety and prevent contamination. 

Interested in taking steps to a water-wise future? If you are give one of the Overberg’s irrigation companies a call to help get you started!