Water usage studies have determined that approximately 50 percent to 80 percent of water use in the region is designated for outdoors. Rain water harvesting systems can be an ally in meeting this demand. Ten inches of rain on a 1,000 square foot roof could provide up to 6,000 gallons of free water in a rain harvesting system, which can reduce your potable water usage. In addition, collecting rain water prevents storm water runoff, protecting our economy which has a vested interest in clean oceans for the tourist industry.

Homeowners can get rebates of up to $35 each on residential rain barrels (up to 2 per home) OR $250-$350 for a cistern, depending on capacity. See if rebates are currently available for rain barrels. 

*If you live in a community governed by a Home Owners Association, please check with your HOA prior to installing a rain barrel.