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Pondspectives with Mike
Monday, Oct. 12, 2009, 7:00 p.m., EDT
Why Rainwater Harvesting Makes Sense
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By Mike Garcia
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Pond and water garden builders can easily learn about rainwater harvesting and diversify their businesses. (Photos courtesy of Mike Garcia)
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As we face major economic and financial challenges, there seems to be a silver lining for pond and water garden professionals who find it hard to keep the work coming. Diversification WILL make the difference as to whether we close our doors or survive these challenging times.What can a pond and water garden professional offer that overlaps with building ponds and water gardens? Rainwater harvesting. Rainwater harvesting involves knowing liner, pumps, overflows and pump housings. The parts are practically the same. The differences include soil removal (for larger systems), matrix tank modules, irrigation pumps and a few other components. A pond and water garden builder has a significantly shorter learning curve than a general contractor when it comes to learning about rainwater harvesting. Rainwater harvesting also has a “little brother” commonly known as rain barrels. Rain barrels are a common sight in Europe, and they are beginning to catch on in the United States. Many homeowners start out with a rain barrel. As time progresses, they often upgrade to rainwater harvesting systems, which are bigger and store the water underground rather than in plain sight. In a depressed economy, the first things eliminated are the disposable-income items, such as ponds and water gardens. Rainwater harvesting systems actually save homeowners money because they save water that will be used at a future time. Saving water means that homeowners will save money due to escalating water costs. Homeowners want to save money. Homeowners want to feel like they are helping the environment. Homowners do both by harvesting their rainwater. This is a win/win proposition. A pondless waterfall can be installed nearby and topped off with rainwater. The possibilities are endless. What rainwater harvesting possibilities have you seen in your area?
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