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Why Should I think about Rainwater Harvesting Carlisle, Mechanicsburg, Harrisburg and Hershey?

2/13/2017

Comments

 
​Capturing rainwater to operate a decorative water feature creates true self-sustainability, drastically reducing the need for chemically-treated traditional water sources.
​While you enjoy the benefits of a decorative water feature, the Aquascape Rainwater Harvesting System filters the stored water to prevent stagnation and growth of unhealthy bacteria. Accessing the stored underground water is easy as connecting a hose to a spigot. A small pump is connected to the stored water making it convenient for you to water the landscape.
​Water is quickly becoming an "endangered species" on our blue planet. Urban growth increases storm water runoff, which in turn harms natural waterways. All life requires water for survival. Becoming aware of the current state of our environmental condition is the first step in identifying viable solutions to ensure clean and healthy water for future generations.
RAINXCHANGE sYSTEM
​
  • Local water sources such as lakes, reservoirs and groundwater continue to decline despite regular rain events.
  • Demand is becoming greater than the supply and the rains that do fall on our ground are lost.
  • Rainwater is actually flowing away from the area it falls on due to development.
  • Water cannot soak into asphalt, concrete or shingles. It flows very quickly off of these surfaces and in the progress it carries a variety of pollutants from dust and dirt to oils, fertilizers and pesticides.
  • This mixture flows quickly into storm sewers and in some cases, ponds and streams.
  • Highly developed areas can have 50% or more surface area covered by impervious surfaces forcing water away from the area where it's needed.
  • Increased water velocity strips the aquatic vegetation from the shores exposing the soil to subsequent erosion and habitat loss.
  • According to the EPA, urban runoff is the number one cause of pollution in coastal environments.
  • Almost 50% of our stream miles, 45% of lake acres and 35% of estuary and bay square miles surveyed by the EPA are considered below the standards for fishing and swimming.
  • As rainwater run-off is carried away it does not have the opportunity to soak into the soil or groundwater reserves so our aquifers continue to lose water and new water is not coming in.
  • Wells throughout the country are going dry or have to be lowered to access the lower water levels.

​Did You Know

​
  • One inch of rainfall on a 2,000 square foot residential roof generates 1,250 gallons of water that can be reused.
  • That same roof in a region receiving 30 inches of annual rainfall generates 41,000 gallons of reusable water.
  • The average U.S. household with a 10,000 square foot lot uses up to 3,000 gallons of water weekly for landscape irrigation.
  • Running a sprinkler for 2 hours can use up to 500 gallons of water.
  • Seventy percent of water used at home is used outdoors.
  • 66,175 gallons of water are used outdoors per household, per year.

​Benefits of Reusing Rainwater

Why let good water go to waste when you can reuse it for another purpose? The benefits of harvesting rainwater are numerous, but some of the more prominent advantages include:
  • Reduce water bills including city storm sewer charges
  • Alleviate demand on municipal systems
  • Avoid strict watering schedules
  • Improved landscape growth
  • Reduce flooding and erosion
  • Efficient use of a valuable resource – water

​The Solution

​The Aquascape Rainwater Harvesting System (previously branded RainXchange) is a revolutionary design that combines a recirculating decorative water feature with a sub-surface rainwater harvest storage system. Traditional methods of harvesting rainwater do not add beauty to your home or office setting.

​Aesthetic Benefits

​The Aquascape Rainwater Harvesting System adds the beauty of a water feature to an efficient system for capturing, filtering, and reusing our most precious resource - water! Whether you choose a Pondless® Waterfall or bubbling urn to your landscape, you'll be happy knowing your Rainwater Harvesting System not only looks great, but is beneficial for the environment, too.

​Wildlife Habitat

​Because the water stored in the Rainwater Harvesting System is constantly moving and being aerated, it becomes a sanctuary for wildlife. Birds, frogs, dragonflies and butterflies all flock to water in the landscape. In fact, water is a key component in certified wildlife habitats.
Comments

Love the sound of water but do not want a Pond and live in Mechanicsburg, Harrisburg, Hershey PA

6/13/2016

Comments

 

 Fountainscape, Bubbling Urns, Standalone Fountains, Pondless waterfall  and Container water Gardens

Water is are Passion and Your Dreams is are limitation!!!
​Call @ (717) 226-1614

​What is a Fountainscape?

Picture
​Fountainscapes are small decorative water features such as tabletop fountains, container water gardens, stand-alone fountains, bubbling urns, spitters, and fountains that incorporate an in-ground reservoir.

​What is a Pondless waterfall

​Pondless Waterfalls are simply a re-circulating waterfall and/or stream without the presence of a pond. You can enjoy the sight and sound of running water without the maintenance of a pond.

​Bubbling Urns and Bubbling Rocks

Picture
These larger water features are typically set atop an underground reservoir that keeps re-circulating the water.  Once the urn fills with water, the water spills out and over into the underground basin, which pumps the water back up through the urn.  If a Bubbling Rocks or decorative fountain is more to your liking, you can still set it on the reservoir and a pipe will transfer the water from the basin up through the center of the spitter or fountain.  

Aquascape provides an extra large reservoir called the AquaBasin.  The AquaBasin supports up to 2,000 pounds and holds 75 gallons of water.  Large basalt columns can be set atop the basin for a truly impressive decorative water feature in the landscape.  For a more formal look, try an impressive brass sculpture. 

The AquaBasin can easily be installed within just a few hours if you like to tackle home projects on your own, or you can hire a Certified Aquascape Contractor to do the job for you.  Aquascape provides a wide variety of decorative pieces that can be used in conjunction with the AquaBasin, from ceramic urns to brass sculptures to carved stone structures.  What's more, Aquascape adds new decorative options each year, so there's always something fresh and new to add to your landscape.

Pondless waterfall               

Get a Price on a Fountain
Picture
​The Pondless Waterfall is undoubtedly the most beautiful and favored feature in a water garden. If space is lacking in your yard or you have safety concerns with a pond, go Pondless! The name basically explains it all. It's a waterfall and stream, without the pond. So why would you want a waterfall without a pond? The truth is that a Pondless Waterfall isn't for everyone, but it can be a great alternative for someone who isn't quite sure if a pond is right for their family.

​Container Water Gardens

Picture
​If you're interested in "testing the waters" of the water gardening hobby, a container water garden is a great place to start! They are generally used to add the sound of water to a deck or patio, but they also look great greeting visitors by the front door. But they don't just add beauty, they also give kids a fun way to learn about nature, and make a great starter "pond" for any young children interested in water.
 
A container water garden can be created using virtually any type of container ... as long as it has the ability to hold water. An old clawfoot tub, a galvanized bucket, your favorite terra cotta pot, or an old whiskey barrel all make great containers for your new water garden! Once you've chosen the container, you need to make sure it will hold water. Any un-glazed pottery will need to be sealed and drain holes will need to be plugged. A wooden container such as a whiskey barrel can be lined with a piece of rubber liner that is affixed to the rim. Make sure the sealant you use safe for plants and fish. 
 
A container water garden wouldn't be a garden without out the plants. When planting a container water garden, the same principals apply as with a regular container garden. A balance of plants that are different shapes and sizes means you'll have a planter that is pleasing to the eye. Or, highlighting just one special plant, such as a lotus plant if you have a large container, or a single, pigmy water lily if you have a smaller container, makes a striking garden and a much simpler approach.
 
If you add fish to your container water garden, consider the water volume of the container. The water in smaller containers goes through extreme temperature changes, which has a negative effect on most fish. Mosquito fish however, can tolerate warm water quite well. If your container holds more than 20 gallons of water you can add any type of goldfish.
 
Since mosquitoes will lay eggs in stagnant water, you'll need a small 75 gph statuary pump fitted with a spitter or fountain head to keep them away from your container water garden. If you don't want a fountain effect, you can position the pump discharge just under the surface of the water to create water movement.
 
Maintenance is easy! To keep the pump operating properly and the plants submerged at the correct level, you'll need to occasionally add water to make up for evaporation. Now that you're enjoying your container water garden, be careful. Once the water gardening bites you, there's no going back! Next, you'll be reading how to build your own in-ground pond.

Standalone Fountains

Picture
​Standalone Fountains are gaining popularity due to their ease of set-up and maintenance.  Found at garden centers and home improvement stores across America, a wide range of styles and finishes are available to fit everyone's taste and budget.  From impressive brass to simple resin fountains, these features are made to "stand alone," meaning they don't need any counterparts to make them function.  Much like a tabletop fountain, all you need to do is add water, plug it in, and enjoy.  Some larger units may require a bit of simple assembly. 
 
Once you find a fountain that fits your style and budget, all you need to do is find the perfect location for it.  You can place it in the foyer of your home to greet guests, or set it outside on the back deck to enjoy during a cool summer evening.  Tuck one near a garden path or by the front entrance of your home.  You'll soon find you want more than just one fountain to grace your landscape.  The sound of water draws visitors into your garden and provides a place for the eyes to rest while enjoying the outdoor spaces.  

Fountainscape and Pondless FAQs

Still have Qustion
What do I do with my decorative fountain/AquaBasin during the winter?
 
  • Drain the basin and/or Spillway Bowl if not going to run during the winter.
  • Remove the pump & store in a frost-free location such as your basement or garage.
  • Make sure pipe is drained.
  • Remove & store the decorative piece in a frost-free location or cover piece with a tarp to overwinter.
What should I do with my Pondless  Waterfall in the winter?
​
  • To shut your pondless waterfall down, first unplug your pump and pull it out of the water along with the check valve. Clean the scale and debris from the pump. Next, store the pump in a frost-free location, submerged in a bucket of water.
  • You can also choose to keep the waterfall running. This will require a little babysitting to make sure an ice dams do not form, which could cause water to run off of the waterfall. You will also need to add water regularly to ensure the pump will function properly. This extra effort during the winter will reward you with the most beautiful ice formations and patterns around the falls and streambeds.
Comments

What is a Fountainscape?

2/1/2016

Comments

 

Fountainscape in Carlisle, Mechanicsburg, Harrisburg & Hershey PA

Fountainscapes are small decorative water features such as tabletop fountains, container water gardens, stand-alone fountains, bubbling urns, spitters, and fountains that incorporate an in-ground reservoir. ​If we can run water through it  there is a good chance we can make a Fountain or water feature out of it.

Standalone Fountains

Need a Fountain installed
Picture
Standalone Fountains are gaining popularity due to their ease of set-up and maintenance.  Found at garden centers and home improvement stores across America, a wide range of styles and finishes are available to fit everyone's taste and budget.  From impressive brass to simple resin fountains, these features are made to "stand alone," meaning they don't need any counterparts to make them function.  Much like a tabletop fountain, all you need to do is add water, plug it in, and enjoy.  Some larger units may require a bit of simple assembly.  

Once you find a fountain that fits your style and budget, all you need to do is find the perfect location for it.  You can place it in the foyer of your home to greet guests, or set it outside on the back deck to enjoy during a cool summer evening.  Tuck one near a garden path or by the front entrance of your home.  You'll soon find you want more than just one fountain to grace your landscape.  The sound of water draws visitors into your garden and provides a place for the eyes to rest while enjoying the outdoor spaces

Container Water Gardens

Picture
If you're interested in "testing the waters" of the water gardening hobby, a container water garden is a great place to start! They are generally used to add the sound of water to a deck or patio, but they also look great greeting visitors by the front door. But they don't just add beauty, they also give kids a fun way to learn about nature, and make a great starter "pond" for any young children interested in water.

A container water garden can be created using virtually any type of container ... as long as it has the ability to hold water. An old clawfoot tub, a galvanized bucket, your favorite terra cotta pot, or an old whiskey barrel all make great containers for your new water garden! Once you've chosen the container, you need to make sure it will hold water. Any un-glazed pottery will need to be sealed and drain holes will need to be plugged. A wooden container such as a whiskey barrel can be lined with a piece of rubber liner that is affixed to the rim. Make sure the sealant you use safe for plants and fish.  

A container water garden wouldn't be a garden without out the plants. When planting a container water garden, the same principals apply as with a regular container garden. A balance of plants that are different shapes and sizes means you'll have a planter that is pleasing to the eye. Or, highlighting just one special plant, such as a lotus plant if you have a large container, or a single, pigmy water lily if you have a smaller container, makes a striking garden and a much simpler approach.

If you add fish to your container water garden, consider the water volume of the container. The water in smaller containers goes through extreme temperature changes, which has a negative effect on most fish. Mosquito fish however, can tolerate warm water quite well. If your container holds more than 20 gallons of water you can add any type of goldfish.

Since mosquitoes will lay eggs in stagnant water, you'll need a small 75 gph statuary pump fitted with a spitter or fountain head to keep them away from your container water garden. If you don't want a fountain effect, you can position the pump discharge just under the surface of the water to create water movement.

Maintenance is easy! To keep the pump operating properly and the plants submerged at the correct level, you'll need to occasionally add water to make up for evaporation. Now that you're enjoying your container water garden, be careful. Once the water gardening bites you, there's no going back! Next, you'll be reading how to build your own in-ground pond.

Bubbling Rocks, Urns and Spitters

Picture
These larger water features are typically set atop an underground reservoir that keeps re-circulating the water.  Once the urn fills with water, the water spills out and over into the underground basin, which pumps the water back up through the urn.  If a spitter or decorative fountain is more to your liking, you can still set it on the reservoir and a pipe will transfer the water from the basin up through the center of the spitter or fountain.  

Aquascape provides an extra large reservoir called the AquaBasin™.  The AquaBasin supports up to 2,000 pounds and holds 75 gallons of water.  Large basalt columns can be set atop the basin for a truly impressive decorative water feature in the landscape.  For a more formal look, try an impressive brass sculpture. 

The AquaBasin™ can easily be installed within just a few hours if you like to tackle home projects on your own, or you can hire a Certified Aquascape Contractor to do the job for you.  Aquascape provides a wide variety of decorative pieces that can be used in conjunction with the AquaBasin™, from ceramic urns to brass sculptures to carved stone structures.  What's more, Aquascape adds new decorative options each year, so there's always something fresh and new to add to your landscape.

Comments

What is Rainwater Harvesting?

1/25/2016

Comments

 

 
Rainwater harvesting in Carlisle,  Mechanicsburg, Harrisburg & Hershey

 
Rainwater harvesting is the accumulation and deposition of rainwater for reuse on-site, rather than allowing it to run off. Rainwater can be collected from rivers or roofs, and in many places the water collected is redirected to a underground storage. Its uses include water for gardens, livestock, irrigation, domestic used to wash car or your house. 

​WHY THE RAINXCHANGE™ SYSTEM?

​The Aquascape RainXchange™ System is a revolutionary design that combines a recirculating decorative water feature with a sub-surface rainwater harvest storage system. Traditional methods of harvesting rainwater do not add beauty to your home or office setting.

​Environmental Conservation

​Capturing rainwater to operate a decorative water feature creates true self-sustainability, drastically reducing the need for chemically-treated traditional water sources. While you enjoy the benefits of a decorative water feature, the RainXchange System filters the stored water to prevent stagnation and growth of unhealthy bacteria. Accessing the stored underground water is easy as connecting a hose to a spigot. A small pump is connected to the stored water making it convenient for you to water the landscape.

Wildlife Habitat

Because the water stored in the RainXchange™ System is constantly moving and being aerated, it becomes a sanctuary for wildlife. Birds, frogs, dragonflies and butterflies all flock to water in the landscape. In fact, water is a key component in certified wildlife habitats.

​Some cool facts about Rainwater. Did You Know

  • One inch of rainfall on a 2,000 square foot residential roof generates 1,250 gallons of water that can be reused.
  • That same roof in a region receiving 30 inches of annual rainfall generates 41,000 gallons of reusable water.
  • The average U.S. household with a 10,000 square foot lot uses up to 3,000 gallons of water weekly for landscape irrigation.
  • Running a sprinkler for 2 hours can use up to 500 gallons of water.
  • Seventy percent of water used at home is used outdoors.
  • 66,175 gallons of water are used outdoors per household, per year​
Why let good water go to waste when you can reuse it for another purpose? The benefits of harvesting rainwater are numerous, but some of the more prominent advantages include:
  • Reduce water bills including city storm sewer charges
  • Alleviate demand on municipal systems
  • Avoid strict watering schedules
  • Improved landscape growth
  • Reduce flooding and erosion
  • Efficient use of a valuable resource - water Some of the benefits of reusing rainwater

RAINXCHANGE™ RAIN BARREL

Picture
​Gone are the days of having to rig your own barrel to capture the rain. While makeshift barrels are still an option, decorative rain barrels provide a more durable and aesthetic option. Aquascape is proud to offer its new RainXchange™ Rain Barrel.
Picture
Product Features
  • LARGE 75-gallon capacity!
  • 5-year warranty
  • Requires no electricity
  • Large safety overflow keeps water in the barrel or away from the house
  • Lid can also be used as a planter
  • Thick plastic walls are durable and will withstand extreme conditions
  • Childproof lockable lid
  • Brass spigot for garden hose connection
  • Made in the U.S.A

Interested in having a Rain Barrel installed

State of the Environment

Water is quickly becoming an "endangered species" on our blue planet. Urban growth increases storm water runoff, which in turn harms natural waterways. All life requires water for survival. Becoming aware of the current state of our environmental condition is the first step in identifying viable solutions to ensure clean and healthy water for future generations.

Local water sources such as lakes, reservoirs and groundwater continue to decline despite regular rain events.
Demand is becoming greater than the supply and the rains that do fall on our ground are lost.
Rainwater is actually flowing away from the area it falls on due to development.
Water cannot soak into asphalt, concrete or shingles. It flows very quickly off of these surfaces and in the process it carries a variety of pollutants from dust and dirt to oils, fertilizers and pesticides.
This mixture flows quickly into storm sewers and in some cases, ponds and streams.
Highly developed areas can have 50% or more surface area covered by impervious surfaces forcing water away from the area where it's needed.

Increased water velocity strips the aquatic vegetation from the shores exposing the soil to subsequent erosion and habitat loss. According to the EPA, urban runoff is the number one cause of pollution in coastal environments.
Almost 50% of our stream miles, 45% of lake acres and 35% of estuary and bay square miles surveyed by the EPA are considered below the standards for fishing and swimming.
As rainwater run-off is carried away it does not have the opportunity to soak into the soil or groundwater reserves so our aquifers continue to lose water and new water is not coming in.
Wells throughout the country are going dry or have to be lowered to access the lower water levels.
Comments

    Author

    Love to make custom water features.  I  am the owner of Gordon's Pond Utopia. Doing what I love building ponds and water features. 

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    • Continued Education
  • Lifestyle
    • Rain Harvesting
  • Fountainscapes
    • Landscape lighting/ Security lights
  • Ponds
    • Pond Myths
    • Prices
    • Pond Renovations
    • Pond Maintenance >
      • Spring Maintenance
      • Summer Maintenance
      • Fall Maintenance >
        • Fall Netting
      • Winter Maintenance
      • Pump Maintenance >
        • Pump Troubleshooting
    • Maintenance Plans
    • Iongen
    • Pond and Pondless Automatic Dosing System
    • Pond Construction
    • Pond Repair >
      • Leak
    • Plant >
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