Did you know that you can get free water from your roof every time it rains? In 2016, Governor John Hickenlooper signed House Bill 1005, which allows up to two rain barrels with a combined capacity of 110 gallons in each household.
According to experts, just one good thunderstorm can bring in 50 to 60 gallons of free water for your garden and lawn! That can mean over 1000 gallons per year! How much money would that save you and your family?
Rainwater collection, also called rainwater “harvesting,” is the process of capturing, storing, and directing rainwater runoff and putting it to use. Water from roof gutter downspouts directed onto landscaped areas is not considered rainwater harvesting under this legislation.
So, how do you collect the rainwater? A rain barrel is the easiest way (it can be purchased at your local home store), or you can build your own for a fraction of the price!
Keep in Mind:
- Under H.B. 1005, rain barrels can only be installed in single- and multi-family households with four or fewer units.
- Rain barrels can only be used to capture rainwater from rooftop downspouts, and the captured rainwater must be used to water outdoor lawns, plants, or gardens on the same property from which the rainwater was captured.
- Rain barrel water cannot be used for drinking or other indoor water uses (it is highly unsafe to consume).
Colorado State University has created a fact sheet for clarification.
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