Rainwater reuse
Rainwater is a valuable local resource that can be captured and reused to support irrigation and improve water availability in agriculture. Roof-based rainwater harvesting systems collect runoff from farm buildings, greenhouses, and storage halls and store it in tanks for later irrigation use, helping buffer rainfall and reduce pressure on groundwater and surface water sources. Beyond roofs, landscape-shaping measures such as field-side ditches, terraces, retention ponds, and micro-catchment systems capture runoff directly in fields and orchards, slow water flow, and enhance infiltration and water availability in the root zone.
Within GEORGIA, these technical and nature-based approaches are combined to reduce runoff losses, limit erosion, and strengthen drought resilience across different farming systems.
Explore the technology
Innovative rainwater harvesting from roofs and storage
A simple system that collects rainwater from roofs and stores it in tanks for later use, including irrigation. It provides an accessible buffer water source for dry periods and reduces stormwater runoff.
Field side ditches for runoff harvesting, storage and reuse for on-site irrigation
Field-side ditches or swales capture and store runoff from heavy rainfall for reuse in irrigation. The approach helps reduce erosion and uncontrolled runoff while improving on-farm water availability.
Earth-dug terraces and retention ponds for runoff capture, infiltration, storage and reuse
Terraces and ponds slow down, store and infiltrate runoff in sloping landscapes, increasing soil moisture and providing stored water for irrigation. The solution also helps limit erosion and keeps sediment and nutrients on-site.
Landscape shaping for integrated rainwater harvesting
Semi-circular “half-moon” basins collect rainfall and runoff around trees or shrubs to boost infiltration and root-zone moisture. It is a low-cost option for dry climates that improves drought resilience and reduces irrigation needs.