Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond (Vol. 2): Water-Harvesting Earthworks

In our area of central Texas, we can get 12" of rain in 48 hrs, and 4" in 2 hrs. Brad's book is my bible for how to control water flow during major rain events, how to capture as much rainwater as possible in the soil, and how feed lots of plants only with rain. I read this book, observed the flow of water during light and heavy rains, started small projects, and started at the highest elevation on the land. I used rock berms where water volume was high, I used earth berms and swales where I wanted to plant trees and vegetables and filled the swales with wood chips to reduce evaporation, and I used fallen trees on contour to slow the flow of water in the undeveloped forested areas. I still refer to this book often, especially before starting any new garden area or water harvesting project. Terraced garden on slope near the driveway is next and Brad explains how to do this too. The examples in the book are great and very helpful. The writing is clear and informative. I highly recommend this book. -- Jim

This series is fantastic. I can't wait to start putting these ideas into action (yes, I said you can implement now, but my land is 1000 miles away...) Brad writes very clearly and with a good balance of background/philosophy, anecdotes and examples, and practical, technical information. He has a no-nonsense approach that anyone can easily and cheaply implement. The only reason I gave this 4 stars instead of 5 is that there's a bit too much overlap between Vol. 1 and Vol 2. You could almost maybe just go straight to Vol. 2 if you already have bought in to the concept. (I have not gotten Vol. 3 yet because I'm not ready to think about cisterns.)

Bought this to do research for drylands restoration and landscaping. Super helpful with lots of ideas.

great book and well worth the price. gets you thinking about your own yard/home and how to act locally yet think globally. the book is easy and quick to read with plenty of diagrams. "real life success stories" are a nice touch to emphasize how each water saving earthwork can be used. i will keep this book for reference always. he does a good job explaining the theory behind why different earthworks should be used in different situations. the only negative thing i would say is that sometimes he makes things sound easier or maybe more straightforward than i think they would be to build/implement... to his defense he does refer people to professionals if they are in doubt. inspires hope for conservative living in a dry climate

This book is It's title says for dry lands but the truth is anyplace can have extended periods of drought. Designing your garden or farm with these Great illustrations they really help you visualize what he is describing. Explains why these things matter in a interesting & readable way! Many examples of techniques from both the author's experiences as well as others! I learned a lot from this book and I am now reading volume 2 which goes into greater detail.The only negative thing I can say about the book is sometimes it is over cross-referenced to previous chapters.

In his second volume, Mr. Lancaster shows us earthworks--passive methods of capturing, spreading and sinking rainwater. Anyone can enhance and enrich the soil with simple methods and tools. Lancaster says, "I give thee thy shovel," (p.25). Real-life examples of these methods used worldwide accomplish many goals: turning water scarcity into water abundance; reducing the use of fossil fuels to clean and deliver water, increase the presence of native plants, and to increase food production.I intend to create a demonstration project on my own homestead, then incorporate some of these methods during my return mission trip to Sierra Leone, Africa. Every little drop counts!

There are some books that are SO good that it is basically impossible to describe how well-written and thorough they are, and thus, there really isn't a need to say much more. Both volumes are THE bible of rainwater harvesting -- period. If you ever wanted to know anything and everything about this subject, here you go. PLEASE buy both volumes! Enough said.

Now I just have to buy the other two books

An excellant primer for many approaches to water storage and harvesting. Southern or Northern hemisphere....arid to flood prone. Permaculturists will love this volume.

Fantastic book. Really well written and a game changer to landscape designers.

It is a very good practical book that stands its ground by itself, but better understood with volume 2.It is pure common sense and gives a step by step guide on how to harvest rainwater.I will put it in practice in our farm in Spain and expect to be fully supplied by rain only.Excellent book!

Follows on from volume one with more detail and practical advice on the subject of harvesting and making the best use of available water.

Fantastic detailed book