After several years of waiting for logistics and funding to align, West Side Elementary School in Healdsburg, CA received a 30,000 gallon Rainwater Catchment System for use in the school’s native plant garden.

The system harvests rainwater from the classroom rooftop when water is most available (winter) and stores the water for use during the time it is most valuable for humans and the environment alike – summer and fall dry months. When the water is needed, it will be pumped out of the tanks by utilizing solar power installed specifically for the catchment system.

This system will save 30,000 gallons of water and help improve streamflow in the Mill Creek watershed by reducing the amount of water that is extracted during months when it is needed most. 

Students, teachers, and school personnel are excited for the opportunity to monitor the collected water, track summer water use, and be a part of positive change for their salmonid neighbors.