How to capture rainfall today, to save and use tomorrow – Saanich News

With the rainy days of autumn now is the perfect time to start thinking about preparing for the coming Deluge – especially with forecasts that last year’s major rainfall events are likely to continue.

Why is that important?

In the past, the capital region’s stormwater systems were designed to remove rainwater from the land as quickly as possible. Today we know that doing so can harm the aquatic environment and the species that live there – like unleashing a fire hose on our local streams and streams and destroying fish habitat.

Instead, to protect these ecosystems, it is important to allow rainwater to penetrate the soil to filter pollutants, store rainwater, and protect aquatic habitats.

READ MORE: 2 easy steps to prepare your yard + garden for fall rain events

That’s why communities in the area have installed green stormwater infrastructure like permeable surfaces, native plants, and rain gardens, but residents and businesses can also take steps around their property to capture, slow, and store stormwater.

Not only will this minimize peak flows and reduce neighborhood flooding, you can store and use this water later in your garden during the dry season.

collect rainwater

Rainwater harvesting simply means collecting and storing rainwater from your downspouts to use on your lawn and garden. Not only does it help slow stormwater runoff, but with proper planning, it can reduce your water usage and store enough water to irrigate your garden during the dry summer months.

With many types and sizes of rainwater storage tanks, look for one that is durable, rot-resistant, opaque, and has child, pet, and pest-proof lids or covers. Look for valves for hose attachments and strainers or filters to keep debris out of the tank and prevent mosquitoes from breeding.

Note: It’s important to use a downspout connection kit to ensure water is directed back into the downspout when the reservoir fills up, or to have an overflow hose routed away from your home during heavy rains. And don’t use untreated rainwater for drinking, cooking or bathing. Rainwater from asphalt shingles, copper, zinc (galvanized metal), or wood shingles that have been treated with chemicals to make them moss, lichen, and algae resistant should only be used on grass or ornamental plants.

To learn more about rainwater harvesting, click here.

Build a rain garden

Rain gardens are landscape features designed to capture rainwater runoff from hard surfaces such as rooftops, streets, and parking lots. They consist of sunken garden areas where runoff can pool and infiltrate deeply constructed soils and then the native soils below. They require careful design and installation, but they are an effective option for stormwater management.

To explore the options for building a rain garden in your backyard, click here.

Act now to manage your rainwater before the fall rains arrive. Learn more at www.crd.bc.ca/live-green

Capital Regional DistrictEnvironment