A RAINWATER HARVESTING WORKSHOP will be offered by WSU Clark County Extension’s Small Acreage Program to address important considerations for farmers and small acreage landowners looking to utilize water that falls from the sky.
In the midst of a severe drought year, water conservation practices are on the forefront of many people’s mind.
A two-part workshop, Rainwater Harvesting for Small Farms, offered by WSU Clark County Extension’s Small Acreage Program will address important considerations for farmers and small acreage landowners looking to utilize the water that falls from the sky. The workshop, which will take place on Aug. 18 and 20, at the 78th Street Heritage Farm, will focus on planning, designing, and safely using rainwater harvesting systems with enough volume to supplement common farm uses during our dry summers.
Rainwater catchment is typically thought of in terms of how the water can be put to beneficial use, but it’s also a great way to control runoff that can contribute to mud issues and flooding during our rainy season. Between home and outbuilding roofs, small acreages properties can easily generate thousands of gallons of water per month during the winter. With a rainwater harvesting system in place this water can be released at optimal times to stabilize stormwater flows, or saved for beneficial uses such as irrigation, animals, or farm chores.
The Small Acreage Program, co-sponsored by Washington State University Clark County Extension and Clark County Environmental Services Clean Water Program, will provide information, handouts, and answer participants’ questions at the workshop. A separate two-day workshop put on by ARCSA (American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association) for rainwater catchment professionals will follow on Aug. 21 and 22 at the 78th Street Heritage Farm. Details for can be found at www.arcsa.org.
Eric Lambert, program coordinator, says, “This workshop will be a great introduction for folks looking to design their own rainwater harvesting system, whether they’re looking to control runoff, have another water source or both.”
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Persons requiring special accommodations should call WSU Clark County Extension at (360) 397-6060 ext. 0 at least two weeks prior to the event.
