Rain barrel

Containers that collect and store roof runoff for later reuse.  They can provide an alternative source of water for irrigation or toilet flushing, thus reducing the property’s potable water use while also mitigating stormwater runoff.  Rain barrels typically hold about 60 gallons, and  provide water for landscape irrigation.  Because of their small size and potential to remain full, however, their impact on stormwater management is limited.  Cisterns are typically larger, and may include pumps and filtration systems that allow them to be used to supplement gray water needs such as toilet flushing.  Because of their size and ability to supplement gray water needs, they can be more effective for stormwater volume reduction than rain barrels.