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UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA/IFAS EXTENSION RAINWATER HARVESTING DEMONSTRATION TRAILER

Extension Education

Ken Rudisill
EXT AGT III ,MS HORT
BAY COUNTY
PANAMA CITY

Abstract

\r\n To increase awareness, knowledge, and efficient use of rainwater harvesting, smart irrigation, and sustainable landscaping by homeowners and irrigation/landscape contractors in Florida and proximal states.  After receiving an Extension Enhancement grant, our team created a “Rainwater Harvesting Demonstration Trailer,” which is wrapped in eye-catching graphics and can be towed throughout the district, state, and adjacent states. The trailer contains everything needed for workshops and/or demonstrations, including a working tabletop water collection display, a rain barrel, a cistern, a mock landscape with multiple irrigation distribution types, and educational banners and handouts.  A CD was compiled with regional publications and instructional guides on irrigation, plant selection, and using cisterns and rain barrels.  A website, www.gardeninginthepanhandle.comwas launched and features maps of rainwater reuse demonstration sites around the district with photos, a workshop schedule, database of suppliers, demonstration videos, testimonials and photos from homeowners who have installed rainwater harvesting devices.  Rain barrel workshop participants consistently respond (over 90%) that their understanding of water conservation’s importance and application at home has improved.  An online database will have photos and testimonials from participants.  Additional economic and environmental impacts can be estimated remotely with combined data supplied by program participants and regional weather station information.  Response from participants at county workshops and larger venues in 2010 was positive.  Over 200 names of interested parties and workshop participants have been gathered and will be contacted at a later date to determine whether interaction with our exhibit encouraged them to make changes to their landscape and/or water use.

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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

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Authors: K.R. Rudisill
  1. Rudisill, K. Horticulture Agent, NACAA, Florida, 32401