Rain Dance for Your Garden Hose? Collecting Rainwater in Colorado Springs
Living in Colorado Springs, you know water is precious. We cherish every snowflake in winter, hoping for a good spring melt. But what about that free-falling goodness from the sky in the summer? Can you harness the power of a downpour and quench your thirsty plants with a little rainwater salsa?
Hold Your Horses (Unless They're Thirsty): The Good News!
Tip: Don’t overthink — just keep reading.
Buckle up, partners, because there's gold in them thar clouds (well, not literally, but rainwater is pretty darn valuable). As of 2016, Colorado Springs, along with the rest of the state, got the green light to collect rainwater! That's right, you can ditch the complicated rain dances (although, a fun sprinkler dance with the kiddos is always encouraged).
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
But Wait, There's a Catch (Smaller Than a Trout, Don't Worry)
QuickTip: Look for patterns as you read.
Now, it's not like you can build a personal reservoir in your backyard. There are some rules to keep things fair and the water flowing smoothly. Here's the lowdown:
Tip: Keep scrolling — each part adds context.
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- The Two-Gallon Gallon Gallon Gang: You can have a maximum of two rain barrels, with a combined storage capacity of no more than 110 gallons. Think cozy bathtubs, not Olympic swimming pools.
- Hydration for Your Plants, Not Your Ego: The collected rainwater is strictly for outdoor use on your lawn, garden, or the aforementioned sprinkler dance extravaganza.
- Keep it Legal, Eagle-Eye: You'll need a rooftop precipitation collection permit from the Colorado Division of Water Resources. It's a breeze, just a quick form to fill out.
So You're Ready to Become a Rainwater Renegade?
Awesome! Here are some tips to get your rainwater rodeo rolling:
- Think Big (But Not Too Big): A larger barrel means less frequent emptying, but remember the 110-gallon limit.
- Location, Location, Location: Place your barrel under a downspout, but make sure it disconnects when the barrel is full to avoid overflowing.
- Safety First, Friends: Keep the lid sealed tight to prevent mosquito mayhem.
How-To FAQ for the Aspiring Rainwater Wrangler
- How to get a rooftop precipitation collection permit? Head to the Colorado Division of Water Resources website or call them for more info.
- How to choose a rain barrel? Consider size, material (plastic is common), and whether you want it above ground or integrated with your downspout system.
- How to keep mosquitos out? Use a tight-fitting lid with a small mesh screen for ventilation.
- How to use the collected rainwater? Attach a spigot to your barrel for easy access and water your plants with a gentle sprinkle (not a power wash).
- How to brag to your neighbors about your rainwater collection skills? Casually mention it while showing off your thriving garden.
Now get out there, Colorado Springs, and embrace your inner rainwater whisperer! Let's keep those gardens flourishing and show Mother Nature we appreciate her free showers (as long as they don't turn into monsoons).
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