Water conservation and utilization project

the problem:

The problems that bad irrigation can cause are flooding of the school for example, the flooding of Ms. Mead’s room and the office. It can also destroy our flowers and plants and cause water damage. Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for microorganisms, including bacteria and mold. They can trigger allergic reactions or make asthma symptoms worse, and continue to damage building materials, furnishings long after the flood

Some ways to prevent rain water flooding and irrigation problems are to use water barrels under each of the gutters to where we can harvest the water for the garden. Another way is to make a better irrigation system so the water does not flood. Here are some things that can be harmed in our school- ceiling tiles, insulation, paper, rags, old boxes, stuffed toys, drapes, plaster, cork bulletin boards, and books. These items can retain water and begin growing mold even if they appear to be dry. Some may become contaminated with mold while wet and continue to be a source of mold spores and exposure even after drying. Flooded carpet, for example, can store mold spores for years. Any carpet if not properly maintained can store mold spores, and flooded carpet allows the mold to grow further.

Collecting rainwater for use during dry months in rain barrels is a very old practice. Rainwater was collected in simple clay containers as far back as 2,000 years ago. With summer droughts facing much of the United States, more and more homeowners are using rain barrels to harvest rainwater to save money and protect natural resources.

The school should collect rain water because it will help the environment, and it will save the school money. Colleting rain water conserves energy and saves on your monthly water bill. Rainwater is an excellent source of water for gardening, bathing, cooking and drinking. Unlike normal water drawn from the tap, rainwater is always salt and mineral free. We can use it on the garden and maybe get a few extra dollars for our projects and supplies.

Some organizations that can help with rain harvesting and irrigation problems are City of Austin – Water Conservation, Texas Water Development Board, and American Rainwater Catchments Systems. They can help by giving us more information and maybe helping with supplies and grant money. They all offer ways to recycle and reuse water for the public and use it to save the environment.

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