CISTERNS

A cistern is a large above ground container that captures and stores rain from a roof or other hard surfaces helping to reduce flooding and sewer overflows.

The water collected in the cistern can be slowly released into a yard or sewer. This lets water slowly trickle out to make room for rain from the next storm. In the late spring, they can be used for storing rain for summer watering. With proper treatment, water from cisterns can also be used for various non-potable purposes such as laundry and toilet flushing. Cisterns are commonly installed on residential private property but can also be installed on larger public and commercial buildings. In Seattle, many cisterns are installed through the RainWise program.