
One of the many ways that Rocky Park Farm practices sustainable farming is through rainwater harvesting. After raising our new greenhouse in the fall of 2023, we decided to expand this practice and installed a total of 4 tanks and an extensive irrigation system meant to water inside via a vertical system, and to the left and right where our growing field and pollinator gardens lie. We are thrilled that this effort has paid off in a big way!
What is rain water harvesting?
Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable process that helps in preserving water for future needs. Water scarcity during our East Tennessee summer draughts is a major concern. The process of rainwater harvesting is a good way to conserve water. Rainwater harvesting is collecting the run-off from a structure or other impervious surface in order to store it for later use. Traditionally, this involves harvesting the rain from a roof. The type of harvesting we do at the greenhouses is called surface runoff harvesting: the system that collects rainwater, which flows away as surface runoff.
How does rainwater harvesting work?
Collection System: Roof surface and gutters to capture rainwater and direct it to the storage system.
Downspouts: Underground or above-ground pipes that carry rainwater from the roof to the storage tank.
Storage Tank: A tank designed to hold and store rainwater, typically made of durable materials such as plastic, steel, or concrete.
First Flush Device: A mechanism that diverts the initial flow of rainwater (containing debris and contaminants) away from the storage tank, ensuring cleaner water is stored.
Filtration and Treatment: Optional components that remove sediment, contaminants, and pathogens from the rainwater, making it suitable for drinking, irrigation, or other uses.
Pumps and Distribution: Systems that distribute rainwater to various points of use, such as toilets, washing machines, or irrigation systems.
What are the advantages of rain water harvesting?
Some of the advantages of harvesting rain water, include:
- Promotes both water and energy conservation.
- Improves the quality and quantity of groundwater.
- It reduces soil erosion, stormwater runoff, flooding, and pollution of surface water with fertilizers, pesticides, metals and other sediments.
- It is an excellent source of water for landscape irrigation with no chemicals, dissolved salts and free from all minerals.
We would love to educate our community more on the advantages and ease of setting up your own rainwater harvesting system. If you are interested, come by the farm and ask for Farmer Roger or Farmer Jim.
