Agricultural users have been collecting and storing water in large commercial tanks for centuries and the building of dams, aqueducts and pipelines has made the supply of water to the cities and suburbs very inexpensive. However, the lack of new water infrastructure, combined with the growing and spreading population, is putting a huge strain on the US water supply system that will result in a similar situation to current day Australia. Rain harvesting will benefit a cross section of the US population.
Gardeners
Rain water contains less chemicals than processed drinking water and is ideal for most plants who thrive in slightly acidic moisture. Rain water collected in a tank is an ideal way to compliment municipal water supply. Drought tolerant plants, drip irrigation and careful landscaping can help reduce water consumption too.
When water rationing is introduced, the first restrictions are usually placed on residents use of water on lawns and gardens. Small rain barrels can help but a rain tank will provide enough water storage help to keep that landscaping investment looking great.
Caring for the environment
Water is a precious resource and every drop counts. Water saved from residential consumption can be used to keep river and aquifer levels healthy or supply farmers who produce our food. Rain tanks help reduce energy consumed in the production and delivery of drinking water. They also reduce urban run-off into rivers, bays and the ocean.
Pool owners
The prospect of water rationing could leave pool owners with half empty pools over summer. The evaporation rate of a pool depends on many factors, but a medium size pool loses between 200-500 gallons a week in summer. A rain tank could be the difference between a fun family summer and a hot, disappointed family.
