The initiative features a partnership with Cole Hardware and permission to collect non-potable rainwater in San Franciscan homes. The local hardware store is offering a highly discounted price of $69.99 for a 60-gallon rainwater barrel — subsidized by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission — with valid identification of a residence in San Francisco.   
    This ancient practice, which originated in farming communities in Mesopotamia and Egypt as far back as the third millennium BCE, will renew awareness of water consumption and act as an innovative step towards reducing our “water footprint.” Rain harvesting is the practice of collecting rain from flat surfaces, such as roofs and gutters, and conserving it in technologically equipped barrels.  This technique is part of the “gray water” movement— conserving bathwater, laundry water, dishwater and now even rainwater. Rainwater harvesting will also reduce flooding in urban areas and minimize sewer discharges.
    While rainwater harvesting will by no means alleviate the drought of the last two years, or support all of San Francisco’s water needs, it is a creative step in the direction of better water conservation. This innovative system will ultimately help San Franciscans become directly involved with the green movement, and raise water conservation awareness, while providing a simple yet effective contribution towards our climate crises.
    To get involved in the age-old practice of rainwater harvesting, simply purchase one of the discounted 60-gallon barrels at your local Cole Hardware. While $70 may seem expensive for a bucket, this innovative and well-equipped system will be well worth the investment for all the savings on your water bills. So let’s reach back to our roots, and irrigate. This creative method to conserve water will be well worth it.