Washington: Where it Rains Cats (and Free Water!)
Let's face it, Washington gets a whole lot of rain. Enough to make you wonder if Noah himself parked the Ark nearby. But hey, all that wet stuff falling from the sky isn't just a nuisance – it's a free resource waiting to be tapped! That's right, we're talking about rainwater harvesting, and the good news is, in Washington, it's not just possible, it's practically encouraged (more on that later).
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| Can You Collect Rainwater In Washington |
So, You Say You Want to Catch Some Raindrops?
Absolutely! Washington state is all about embracing that free H2O. In 2009, they implemented a rainwater use policy that basically throws open the spigot (or downspout, in this case) on collecting rainwater for non-potable uses. Think watering your thirsty rhododendrons, giving your car a guilt-free wash, or even topping up your backyard koi pond (assuming they're cool with rainwater).
But wait, there's more! Washington is so into rainwater harvesting, some cities even offer discounts on rain barrels – those handy little containers that catch the runoff from your roof. Who knew saving money could be so refreshing?
Now Hold on a Second, Smokey...
While Washington is all about catching rainwater, there are a few things to keep in mind:
QuickTip: Reread for hidden meaning.
- Don't Get Greedy: The rainwater you collect needs to stay on your property. Sharing is nice, but not when it comes to your free water supply.
- Keep it Clean: Rainwater can pick up some hitchhikers on its way down, so it's not exactly suitable for brewing your morning cup of joe (unless you like a side of bird poop with that).
- Check with Your County: While the state gives the green light for rainwater collection, some counties might have their own regulations. It's always best to double-check before you invest in a giant inflatable pool to catch that next downpour (not that we'd recommend that...).
Thinking Outside the Rain Barrel: Using Rainwater for More
We all know about rain barrels, but what if you're feeling fancy? Washington allows for more elaborate rainwater harvesting systems, like cisterns. These bad boys can store a whole lot more water, perfect for those who like to think big (or have a particularly thirsty garden).
Important Note: If you're planning on using rainwater as your main source of drinking water, things get a bit trickier. Rainwater isn't automatically safe to consume, so you'll need to treat it properly. Check with your local health department for the specifics.
Rainwater Harvesting FAQ:
How to collect rainwater in Washington?
Tip: Compare what you read here with other sources.
Simple! Install a rain barrel or cistern under a downspout. Check with your local regulations for any size restrictions.
How much rainwater can I collect?
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That depends on the size of your collection system and how much rain falls in your area. But hey, free water is free water, collect as much as you can responsibly use!
QuickTip: Keep going — the next point may connect.
Can I use rainwater for everything?
Nope! Rainwater is great for watering plants, washing your car, or flushing toilets (with proper treatment). But for drinking, you might need additional filtration.
Do I need a permit to collect rainwater in Washington?
Tip: Let the key ideas stand out.
Generally, no, for non-potable uses. But always check with your county for any specific requirements.
Where can I learn more about rainwater harvesting?
The Washington State Department of Ecology has a wealth of information on their website. Happy rain catching!
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