Here in the pacific northwest we usually don’t have to worry about rain shortages but why not harvest some rain water during the wettest season of the year? Though it takes a couple extra steps to make rain water into drinking water, it is perfect to use for your garden and can help lower your water bill.

How to Collect Rain Water

The easiest way to collect rain water is to catch the water that falls on the roof and direct it into a rain barrel or cistern for later use. Place the rain barrel below a gutter and let the rain do the rest! A hose or a spout can easily be attached for when you’re ready to use the collected water. Sans minerals and chemicals rain water is extremely beneficial for your garden.

Health & Safety Concerns

Collecting rain water is breeze but it is important to make sure that your roof is not contaminated before partaking in this activity. Stainless steel and galvanized steel with a baked-on enamel, lead-free finish are the best because they are easy to clean, provide an efficient stream of water, and do not absorb water. Other roofing types are more susceptible to mold and algae and some roof treatments can contaminate the water.

Before you collect rain water from your roof and gutters make sure that your roof is in a good clean condition that will not contaminate your garden when you choose to use it.