The onset of another Austin summer guarantees two things: extreme heat and water conservation efforts. After all the hard work you have put into your lawn, there is no way you are going to let it shrivel up and die, right? One option that can keep your lawn alive and follow the mandated watering schedules has been around for centuries: rainwater harvesting.

Rainwater harvesting began as a necessity for household and agricultural use before central water distribution systems. It was collected in cisterns and stored onsite for use as needed. It has seen resurgence with local, state, and national efforts to conserve water resources for several reasons, including Central Texas’ recent drought.

Setting up a rainwater harvesting system does not necessarily need to replace your home water supply, but it most certainly can be used to water your landscape. The economic and environmental benefits are overwhelming.

Rainwater is collected in barrels placed either under the gutters coming off of the roof, or in a place where two roofs intersect. These rain barrels typically hold about 75 gallons and can be purchased locally. Most, if not all, of them come with spouts and/or hoses attached, so they are ready to use.  They stand on their own and are made of non-toxic materials and can be found in aesthetically pleasing designs as well.

A couple of rainwater barrels placed strategically and an almost average rainfall year is all most homeowners will need. For those that need a more advanced system, speak to your landscape architect to case your needs and develop a solution.

The City of Austin offers rebate programs and sales tax incentives in an effort to curb water use in Travis County.

Rainwater harvesting is a win-win, for your lawn and your wallet!