My consuming interest in water capture took a new turn recently and one that might offer some exciting possibilities for Californians in addressing the impacts of climate change. 

After installing a rainharvesting system 10 years ago, with 10,000-15,000 gallons catch capability in tanks, I experienced the multiple benefits of water capture, I became obsessed with the topic and began exploring it further. Questions came to mind:  How does one store water without tanks (I learned that the soil is the ultimate reservoir) and is it possible to convert rainwater to drinking water? (Indeed it was) 

With community input from a neighbor and Sonoma County entrepreneurs, The Water Folk (https://www.thewaterfolk.com/), we began the project with an old tank, unused fence boards and a trellis in need of repair and relocation.  The redwood posts, brackets, roofing material and concrete were purchased.  Making use of the reusable and renewable to the extent possible was a priority.

The rain tank had both overflow pipes and a durable faucet.  Water piping connected the faucet at the base of the tank to the water filtration and purification station.  The overflow made a small rain garden possible where moisture-loving plants could be installed and water could penetrate the soil as a source of future groundwater.

A portable solar unit, the energy source for the water filtration system, is stored in an easy-to–move battery.

We tested the water before drinking and it contained no lead, chlorine, iron or copper. There was a miniscule amount of nitrate and no microbes.  

It is a short and simple process to connect the rainwater from the tank via tube to the purification system and plug the system into the previously charged power source.  Then voila! – homemade water. To arrange a visit to view hillside contouring that creates basins and swales for water infiltration and/or to see my water shed, contact me at www.diablonature.org

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