Rainwater Harvesting

Date: 11/24/2026
Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM EST
Credit: 1 Hour

 

Rainwater Harvesting: Fundamentals of Sustainable Water Management

Course Description

Rainwater harvesting offers opportunities to conserve water, supplement conventional supplies, and support sustainable site development. Understanding its potential begins with evaluating how much water can be collected, when it will be available, and what quality is needed for its intended use.

This basic, one-hour webinar introduces the principles of rainwater collection, storage, and reuse. Participants will explore the primary components of a harvesting system, including catchment surfaces, conveyance systems, pretreatment devices, storage tanks, and distribution equipment. The discussion connects these components to practical considerations involving rainfall patterns, collection area, water demand, and maintenance.

The webinar also addresses the distinction between potable and nonpotable applications, emphasizing that collected rainwater requires appropriate evaluation and treatment before use. Designed for engineers seeking an introductory foundation, the course highlights how site conditions, water quality, system costs, and operational responsibilities influence the suitability of rainwater harvesting as part of a sustainable water management strategy.
 

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this webinar, participants will be able to:

1. Describe how rainwater harvesting can support water conservation and sustainable water resources management.
2. Identify the principal components of a rainwater harvesting system and explain their functions.
3. Explain how rainfall patterns, catchment area, storage capacity, and water demand influence collection potential and supply reliability.
4. Distinguish potable from nonpotable applications and identify associated water quality and treatment considerations.
5. Identify site, maintenance, and cost considerations that influence the feasibility and long-term performance of a rainwater harvesting system.

Course Number:  LWP112426
Field of Study: Sustainability
Level: Basic
Presenter:
Ronald Finger
Prerequisites: 
None