Mr. and Mrs. Pinkney dreamt of transforming their lawn into flower, fruit, and vegetable gardens, but were doubtful that their well could sustain such irrigation demand while also being the source of their drinking water. They were also frustrated by precipitation runoff from their house roof negatively impacting their landscaping and concerned with groundwater contamination via a sinkhole on their property. In search of a solution to these problems, the Pinkney’s attended a workshop hosted by Mountain Castles Soil and Water Conservation District where they became interested in rainwater harvesting and learned of a cost-share program designed to assist homeowners aspiring to install stormwater best management practices.
Mr. and Mrs. Pinkney decided to submit an application in October 2025 to the Virginia Conservation Assistance Program (VCAP) for a rainwater harvesting system. Their application was approved with a design of a system using four cisterns to collect rainwater from the roof of their residence and distribute stored runoff for non-potable uses. Between November 2025 and March 2026, Mr. and Mrs. Pinkney purchased the materials for and completed construction of the rainwater harvesting system. Inspection of the system was completed in March by District staff. In April 2026, cost-share reimbursement was issued to the Pinkney’s at the rate of $4.00/gal per runoff volume as calculated from a one inch precipitation event.
The Pinkney’s rainwater harvesting system collects runoff from 3,528 sq. ft. of roof and has a storage capacity of 4,100 gallons. By retaining rainwater on-site for irrigation and other non-potable uses, the system effectively disconnects impervious surface from the stormwater conveyance, reduces the quantity of surface runoff leaving the property, and reduces peak-flow downstream. Over the course of one irrigation cycle, the demand for water on the Pinkney’s property is approximately 120 gallons. By using the stored runoff from the rainwater harvesting system to meet the irrigation demand, the Pinkney’s valuable well water is conserved for drinking, washing, and other potable uses. Additionally, because the distribution system is gravity fed, electricity consumption by and wear on their well pump is reduced.
With assistance provided by the District through VCAP, the Pinkney’s have realized their dream. In the midst of a severe drought, their gardens are flourishing without compromising their drinking water. Because of their commitment to sustainability, their downstream neighbors benefit. And we all live downstream.
All photos by David Pinkney