Community

Creating abundance with rainwater and greywater in Sedona on May 13

Sedona, AZ - May 3, 2008 - Utilizing rainwater and greywater in our landscapes are two of the most effective forms of water conservation in our area. Turning these wastes into resources turns a water scarcity mentality into a water abundance mentality, while lowering our water bills considerably. Learn methods of this conservation process at the Sedona Public Library at 6:30pm on Tuesday, May 13 in the Si Birch Community Room.

Despite the fact that we live in an arid region, a surprising volume of rainfall can accumulate (for every inch of rain, 1246 gallons land on a 2000 square foot roof, and in an average year, approximately 200,000 gallons of rainfall land on a ˝ acre property). This water can be stored in active rainwater harvesting systems (storage tanks) or distributed passively to earthworks designed to slow, spread, and sink the rainfall into the landscape. Rainwater is especially useful for its ability to dilute salt build-up in our already salty soils.

Greywater (also known as gray water and grey water) represents another vast quantity of water that can be utilized in the landscape. On average, Arizona residents use over 120 gallons of water per person per day. If all water from showers/bathtubs, bathroom sinks, and laundry machines were plumbed for use in the landscape we would all have veritable perennial springs without any extra energy or water use. Through the year 2011, the state of Arizona is offering tax rebates of up to $1,000 for taxpayers who install water conservation greywater systems in their residences.

Chris Anderson has been practicing ecological living and permaculture since 1994. Fueled by the connection he has found with nature and inspired to share his passions with others, Chris co-founded a school-based environmental education program, sold homegrown, organic produce at restaurants and farmers’ markets, initiated a food forest project at Crescent Moon Ranch, and is a co-founder of Eden on Earth, LLC. Eden on Earth is an ecological landscaping company specializing in rainwater harvesting, greywater systems, and edible landscaping. Chris loves sharing his ecological passions with groups, and is available to speak at community and civic gatherings.

The Sedona Public Library offers a myriad of programs for all ages and all interests. For information about these or any programs as well as the wide variety of services the Library offers, please call 282-7714. These programs are free to all, although your donation to support the Library's programming efforts is appreciated.



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