However, a recent study conducted by the Colorado Water Conservation Board showed that 97 percent of the rainwater that lands on our homes is absorbed by existing vegetative cover or into the ground and does not end up in rivers or streams, therefore not impacting users downstream. Colorado representatives recently voted on House Bill 1259 to allow citizens to collect a small amount of rainwater – up to 110 gallons – for private outdoor use.

This bill is important for the future of Colorado’s water. Allowing homeowners to utilize a limited amount of water from rain barrels can serve as a powerful tool in tangibly visualizing how much water one is actually consuming. This has the potential to create a public that is more aware of and invested in their own water usage – something we need in order to address Colorado’s future water challenges. The bill will be heard before a Senate committee in the coming weeks. Sen. Ellen Roberts needs to know that people in her district support the rain-barrel legislation, so please encourage your legislators to support House Bill 1259!

Dominique Edgerly

Durango