Low Impact Development Manual for Michigan - OSEH - University ...

Description and Function
Capture reuse is the practice of collecting rainwater in
a container and reusing it in the future. Other terms for
this BMP include storage/reuse, rainwater harvesting,
and rainwater catchment system.
This structural BMP reduces potable water needs while
simultaneously reducing stormwater discharges. When
rain barrels or cisterns are full, rooftop runoff should
be directed to drywells, planters, or bioretention areas
where it will be infiltrated.
Variations
Rain barrel
Commonly, rooftop downspouts are connected to a
rain barrel that collects runoff and stores water until
needed for a specific use. Rain barrels are often used
at individual homes where water is reused for garden
irrigation, including landscaped beds, trees, or other
vegetated areas. Other uses include commercial and
institutional facilities where the capacity of stormwater
can be captured in smaller volume rain barrels.
Residential rain barrel
Source: Harley Ellis Devereaux
Cisterns
A cistern is a container or tank that has a greater storage
capacity than a rain barrel. Typically, cisterns are
used to supplement greywater needs (i.e., toilet flushing,
or some other sanitary sewer use) though they can
also be used for irrigation. Cisterns may be comprised
of fiberglass, concrete, plastic, brick, or other materials
and can be located either above or below ground. The
storage capacity of cisterns can range from 200 gallons
to 10,000 gallons. Very large cisterns, essentially
constructed like an underground parking level, can also
be used. Figure 7.16 highlights the typical components
of a cistern.
Figure 7.16
Typical cistern components
Source: This image generously provided by
www.rainkeeper.us
Figure Description:
1. Filter/screening mechanism to filter runoff
2. Inflow into cistern
3. Intake for water use
4. Cistern overflow
5. Subsequent stormwater system (infiltration system in
this case) for cistern overflow
6. Optional level gauge
LID Manual for Michigan – Chapter 7 Page 149