Rainwater capture is when rainwater is collected for irrigation or other non-drinking uses. Landscape designs featuring rainwater capture systems retain water during a storm, then slowly release the water over a period of time. These systems conserve water and reduce flooding, stormwater pollution, and erosion, while protecting our local creeks and the San Francisco Bay.

How Can I Capture Rainwater on my Property?

The following techniques can be used to capture rainwater on site after a storm. Some of these systems require technical guidance. For steep slopes and erodible soils, please consult with an appropriate professional such as a landscape architect or engineer.

1. Plant Trees: Trees filter pollutants and reduce runoff by absorbing and storing rainfall - up to 1,000 gallons annually, depending on the size and type of tree.
   
   
2. Create a Rain Garden: Rain gardens are landscaped areas that reduce runoff by absorbing and filtering rainwater.
   
   
3. Install Downspouts: Disconnected downspouts direct roof runoff away from the foundation and towards a landscaped area where plants can absorb flows and filter pollutants.
   
   
4. Replace Asphalt & Concrete with Pervious Surfaces: Pervious surfaces such as gravel, turf blocks, interlocking pavers, pervious asphalt, and pervious concrete allow water to infiltrate to an underlying drainage layer, reducing rainwater runoff. 
   
   
5. Install Rain Barrels or Cisterns: Rain barrels and cisterns capture roof runoff, releasing it safely and slowly into the landscape to prevent high flows and erosion. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Tap into the Rain Webinar

The Clean Water Program held a public webinar on rain barrels, rain gardens, and pervious pavements for Alameda County homeowners. View the recording below and download the webinar resources packet for more information.