In the heart of Tucson, Arizona, Brad Lancaster finds joy in the rare desert rain. The 58-year-old enthusiastically splashed around in puddles following a brief but welcome monsoon shower, delighted to see water collecting in a basin he had prepared.
“Sweet!” Lancaster cheered, watching rainwater settle into the depression he had dug to capture rainwater for native plants. “It’s really important that you are ready to plant the rain when it comes, even if it is a small amount,” he explained, highlighting the importance of harnessing even the slightest downpour.
In regions like the U.S. Southwest, rainwater harvesting is becoming an essential practice for gardeners and landscapers as drought conditions worsen and temperatures rise. Lancaster, along with other experts, advocates for harvesting rain, even in areas with less frequent droughts, to support plant irrigation.
Rainwater collection is commonplace across some of the driest areas worldwide. In Australia, it’s utilized for daily needs such as drinking and washing, while in certain African communities, it is vital for survival during dry periods.
Arizona, particularly Tucson, faces intense drought, receiving less than half of its usual rainfall by early September. This makes rainwater harvesting particularly beneficial during the summer monsoon season, when the region experiences some of its heaviest rainfall.
Adriana Zuniga, from the University of Arizona, points out that a significant portion of residential water in Tucson is used outdoors. “The idea is to use less water from the tap to irrigate,” she said.
The concept of rainwater harvesting is far from new. Zuniga notes that the Maya people harnessed rainwater to endure hot, dry seasons, a practice that could be crucial in today’s changing climate, according to Tucson landscaper Eli Nielsen.
If you’re interested in setting up your own rainwater collection system, here are some steps to consider:
Educate Yourself
Check your state’s regulations on rainwater harvesting and determine if a permit is required. A tool from the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory can assist in understanding these guidelines.
Local resources, such as city water departments or community colleges, may offer programs and guidance for rainwater harvesting. In Tucson, for instance, the city provides rebates for residential rain collection systems and works with the Watershed Management Group to offer necessary classes.
Online resources include the Essential Rain Water Course on YouTube, co-hosted by experts Peter Coombes and Michelle Avis.
Make a Plan
Your approach can vary based on ambition. Hsin-I Chang of the University of Arizona notes that while some may not be as dedicated as Lancaster, many can benefit from starting with simple, passive systems that shape landscapes to naturally direct rainwater into the ground.
Looking for More Help?
Consider hiring professionals or seeking advice from master gardeners at local nurseries. And perhaps take a page from Lancaster’s book, embracing the excitement and satisfaction of capturing every raindrop.
—
Read More Arizona News
