Level 1 Project Plan

Simple (Passive) Rainwater Harvesting Systems:
Collection – roof, patio, sidewalks
Distribution System – gutters and downspouts, channels, ditches, swales
Landscape Holding Area – concave depressions, the addition of berms, moats, or soil terracing

View example of a Level 1 project plan.

Step #1.  Site Plan:

• Draw site to scale and include dimensions.
• Show direction of water flow off roof tops and landscapes with arrows.
• Where are the high points/ridge lines? (Indicate with a + sign.)
• Where are the low points/outlets? (Indicate with a - sign.)
• Determine catchments.
• Identify areas that require irrigation.
• Label surface areas of hardscapes and landscapes, identified rainwater practice(s), and associated potential storage volume.

Step #2.  Site Analysis:

• Assess site conditions to determine rainwater harvesting goals.
• If harvesting rainwater from a roof, extend gutter/downspouts to reach planted areas or provide a path.
• Take advantage of hardscapes to catch water and redistribute to planted areas.
• Soil can also serve as a catchment by grading the surface to increase and direct runoff.
• Strive for zero runoff with no rain or irrigation water allowed to run off your property.

Step #3.  Design Landscape Holding Areas:

• How can we slow the flow of water?
• Locate and size landscape holding areas.
• Locate landscape depressions that can hold water.
• Create new depressions where you want to locate plants.
• Construct berms or moats.
• Connect several holding areas with spillways or channels to distribute water throughout the site.