Using Reclaimed Water

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Using Reclaimed Water

In the past, when I would hear about reclaimed water, I would kind of cringe. It originally sounded absolutely disgusting to me. Generally speaking, reclaimed water comes from sewage. Then this water is sued for everyday purposes, with the exception of eating and drinking. I think that many people are under the same impression that I used to be, that reclaimed water is disgusting. However, this is not the case. Reclaimed water has many great qualities and uses. Many of these uses save us from using good drinking water for reasons other than drinking. Reclaimed or recycled water is water that has been purified. This reclaimed water comes from wastewater that has been treated to be reused for irrigation and groundwater. The reason why we use reclaimed water is to sustain our water sources and to conserve water. There are many places that use reclaimed water for several different reasons and have been doing so for years. California, statewide, has communities within it that have been using this reclaimed water successfully.

Have you ever stored and used your rainwater? My grandmother used to do this and she had all sorts of things that she would use this water for. Many people who are from my Grandmother’s generation have all sorts of household tips and tricks that save them from wasting anything. Sometimes we unknowingly waste thousands of dollars a year in water/ sewage fees when we could really be saving that money. One such way, is using reclaimed water.

Reclaiming Your Water, and Your Money

When you reclaim your water; and no, I am not talking about sewage water, I’m talking about rain water; you will find that you experience a sense of power and control over your own life. There are many aspects in life that we cannot seem to have in our control, this does not have to be one of them. Sometimes we forget all of the great little ways that will help us keep a handle on things. Stepping back and taking a page from our grandparent’s books can really give us an eye opener and allow for us to regain a sense of control.

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You can go to your local army depot or bulk food store and purchase bins to use to collect your reclaimed water. When you are preparing to collect this water, you may be left wondering what you’ll use it for, and what the point would be. Well, let’s think about this: Rain falls from the sky and into lakes and streams that feed into many of our drinking water supplies. The water is then purified and good for drinking. While you won’t be drinking your reclaimed rainwater, you will be finding good use for it.

This rainwater has so many good uses, some that I’m sure I don’t even realize. Position your bins or tubs or storage canisters underneath your rain gutters to collect the water. Once you have done this and begin to build up your supply of water, you can begin to implement your rainwater into everyday uses.

–       Water your indoor plants and watch them bloom and grow

–       Water your garden or potted plants outside to witness the magic of rainwater

–       Make a pretty backyard pond with your rainwater and put some fish in there and watch them thrive

There are many more uses for your rainwater, and you’ll find that you feel frugal and smart when recycling. The use of rainwater helps the environment and lets your plants thrive and develop.

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Recycling is Rewarding

When you recycle, you will feel a sense of accomplishment and pride. You’ll feel as though you once again have a greater handle on your own life. You’ll feel a sense of appreciation for Mother Nature as you use your rainwater as a gift from her. Reclaiming your water will allow you to reclaim yourself, in a sense. We, as humans, need to show greater appreciation for our lives here. This Earth has so much to offer, and it seems that we have the tendency to ignore those offerings and utilize very little of what there is for us. Reclaiming your rainwater is one small step toward living a more natural, earth friendly life.

By Rebecca Shanks

Rebecca Shanks is an opinionated wife and mother. Whether the conversation is about the best brand of laundry detergent, the newest political topic, or rain gutters Salt Lake City, she has a thought or two to share. Rebecca enjoys spending time with her husband and son, writing, horseback riding, reading, and bowling, in that order.

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