June 19, 2009

The Rain Harvesting Systems at Public Works makes use of thousands of gallons of water that otherwise would just wash away. And with the surplus of rain in June, the system was installed just at the right time.

The water is collected as it comes down the roof and feeds into the storm water tank. Then, the water filters hook a hose from the truck to the tank to fill it. All so street sweeper trucks and asphalt rollers can used the saved water.

"It reduces the city's own utility bills and it also serves as an example of what can be done to retro-fit buildings, not only to save water, but reducing our storm water flow," said Water Conservation Coordinator, Jennifer Watson.

Watson says plans are in the works to use the harvesting system at CTS stations and Charlottesville High School to wash buses and irrigate athletic fields.

Staff at Public Works is also trying to call attention to another form of rain harvesting, for your home, which includes a rain barrel rebate program.

"Here are two examples of rain barrels, and again they are very simple," said Watson.

The home barrels can be used to catch and collect water from your gutters. You can then put a pot or hose to the spicket and use the water that would be wasted.