Over the course of one year, Mount Auburn will save over 300,000 gallons of municipal water—that’s drinkable water—by using rainwater for greenhouse irrigation instead.

From these barrels…

…to this cistern.

The Water Efficiency category of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for new construction has 10 possible points.  The new Horticulture Center is positioned to achieve all 10 points easily because of this new below-ground cistern that captures rainwater from the roofs of the new greenhouses. Additionally, we’ll receive one ’extra credit’ point in the Innovation in Design category because the new efficient toilets will be flushed with water from the cistern also.  The new greenhouses complete the first phase of Horticulture Center.

Read parts 1 & 3 of this water conservation series:

Part 1: Watering the Plants in the Landscape

Part 3: Rain Barrels Available for Your Home Use