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Seed Bank Exchange in Rabinal
Rainwater Harvesting Cistern in Atitlan
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Planting for Nutrition and Health
Learning about Plants in Rabinal
Team Atitlan
Constructed Ecosystem for Growing Watercress

Building a Rainwater Harvesting Ferrocement Cistern

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Ferrocement technology is widely used around the world, as a good method for building large water vessels, for fresh water supply. Ferrocement consists of a thin sheet of cement mortar which is reinforced with a cage made of wire mesh and steel bars. The wire cage is set in a wet cement bottom (foundation), and then plastered on both sides. Because ferrocement is structurally more efficient than masonry, the thickness of the walls of the container are as low as 10 to 15 mm. Ferrocement requires only a few easily available materials - cement, sand, galvanized wire mesh.

This tank is being constructed to catch roof runoff for potable use, and also for irrigation of gardens; addressing two issues at once - secure clean water supply, and extra water for gardening. This method has really become popular in the area after the workshop with Scott Pittman at IMAP.