Inspired by Brad Lancaster, author of Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond, and his 2011 presentation at Journey School — Cyreine designed a rainwater harvesting demonstration site on our elementary school campus for her 8th grade project. She’s currently receiving weekly one-on-one support from Jodi Levine, Director of Earthroots Field School.
Cyreine measured and calculated how much rainwater falls on the school’s office building and determined it is currently ineffectively washing down the drain. The goal of her project is to get as much water as possible absorbed into the soil to hydrate local native plants which will beautify the school entrance while offering habitat and food to local bees, butterflies, lizards and other creatures.
The installation of Cyreine’s design will occur on March 26th and 27th. She will be assisted by 5th grade Journey School students, parents, and community volunteers including SOKA University interns and Earthroots staff. The group will dig a mulch basin to accommodate overflow rainwater from two roofs at the front of the school.
“This project is changing lives and improving the environment around campus,” says Levine. “Hundreds of people walk through this area of campus each day. It has not been effectively irrigated for years and needs more water.” With support from the Eco-Literacy Program volunteer, Michelle Spieker, the 8th grade teacher, Mr. Martin, and the Journey School administration – Cyreine is demonstrating how we can all live in better balance with natural water flow instead of bringing in water from the city. She is an incredible inspiration to her peers and elders alike.
Where: Journey School — a public charter elementary school in Aliso Viejo, CA
Installation: March 26th and 27th from 9am to 3pm
Volunteers encouraged: Journey parents and community volunteers are invited to help
Project made possible by donations from Home Depot, Paradise Designs, and Tree of Life – Native Plant Nursery.
