As we roll into the heart of summer with meteorologists predicting a drier season than the norm, the City of Mesa is advocating for a sustainable practice that's bound to make you a neighborhood eco-champion—rainwater harvesting. In an online bulletin published July 16th, residents are being encouraged to gear up for the monsoon rains, which, despite lower expectations, can still offer an ample free supply of life juice for your thirsty backyard flora.
In the recent update provided by the City of Mesa's announcement, a rallying cry was made for citizens to visit their comprehensive rainwater harvesting resource page. It's chock-full of tips and links on how to become a more resourceful water saver. "Free water boosts plant growth and reduces potential pollution," the bulletin exclaims, pointing to the multi-faceted upsides of collecting the rain. For those wondering if their gardens got a good drink, Mesa points them towards rainlog.org or the Maricopa County Flood Control Rainfall Map.
The sustainable charm doesn't stop there, as residents can also check out July's Sustainability Savings Tips, a PDF that's promised to unveil the top five reasons to hop on the rainwater harvesting bandwagon. Given the rising costs of well, everything, and the glaring need to pivot towards more Earth-friendly practices, the guide could be a small, yet impactful way to start making changes at home.
Moreover, the bulletin includes a simple hack for saving water during downpours: "If you get 1/2" of rain or more, it's easy to save water in your landscape by turning your controller to the 'OFF' 'STOP' or 'RAIN' setting." It seems like a no-brainer, but its effects on our water bill—and more importantly, on the environment—can be profound. With resources like rainlog.org highlighted in the city's communication, tracking those rainy blessings is easier than ever.
So, before you chalk up the coming dry-monsoon news as a complete summer bummer, remember the water-saving silver lining presented by Mesa. Taking even small strides towards greener living can have a bigger impact than you might think.
