Rainwater Harvesting: 5 Reasons You Should Get Started Today

In light of the recent NY heat wave, you may be wondering how you can maximize your yard's use of the rainwater that falls throughout late summer. In the heat, evaporation rates are high and water for irrigation can get expensive, not to mention the fact that it almost seems wasteful to not do something more with the runoff from the rainfall. Did you know that they average person uses 50 gallons of water per day to meet their basic needs, but with irrigation that number increases to 100 gallons? Rainwater harvesting is an easy way to utilize the water readily available right in your backyard!

Here are 5 reasons why you should start harvesting your rainwater:

1. Rainwater is an economical alternative to public water, especially when it comes to irrigation use. Although usually an up-front investment is required, the long-term savings can be significant.

2. Rainwater is not regulated by municipal water restrictions. In the case of drought, harvested rainwater can protect your investment in your gardens and landscape.

3. Rainwater is naturally soft and devoid of chlorine, so it's the best water for your lawn and gardens.

4. Rainwater has other great uses such as washing cars and clothes, filling pools and ponds, even for flushing toilets and for showering and bathing.

5. The yield of rainwater you get per year can be astounding. Just one inch of rain on a 1,000 square foot roof will yield 600 gallons of rainwater!

If you're concerned about water conservation or have thought about harvesting rainwater, give us a call. We specialize in landscaping in New York, and we'd love to help you as you consider this investment.

Trivia time! What is the wettest month in Bedford, NY on average, the month when the most precipitation is received? (Hint: Search "Bedford, NY" at weather.com.) The first person to like our page and leave the correct answer on our Facebook wall will receive a FREE fall leaf removal service from the Rock Shelter team!

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