Local Knowledge About Harvested Rainwater Systems

Reuse and augmentation options directly available to the homeowner include graywater use and rainwater harvesting. Not all households, however, can take advantage of these options. Such variables as type and location of residence, financial resources, and legal restrictions determine whether a household is able to make use of these strategies. In rainwater harvesting, water is collected from the roof and from catchments such as gutters. In some cases the flow from concrete patios, driveways and other paved areas is also harvested. Houses can be designed to maximize the amount of catchment area, thereby increasing rainwater harvesting possibilities.