ELDORADO – As triple-digit heat and dry weather return to West Texas, the importance of rainwater harvesting will take center stage during a special workshop from 9 a.m.-noon Aug. 11 in Eldorado.
The Rainwater Harvesting program, conducted by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service offices in Schleicher and Irion counties, will be held at the Eldorado Community Center located a mile south of Eldorado on U.S. Highway 277.
Tait Cooper, AgriLife Extension agent in Schleicher County, said Billy Kniffen, retired AgriLife Extension water resource associate from Menard, will teach the class.
“Mr. Kniffen is well-known throughout our area for his knowledge on all aspects of rainwater harvesting,” Cooper said. “He has planned and constructed a wide range of systems ranging from small units for wildlife to large residential and commercial installations. So if there are questions about any facet of rainwater harvesting, chances are Mr. Kniffen will have the answer.”
Laci Kennedy, AgriLife Extension agent in Irion County, said Kniffen will cover topics ranging from the basics of rainwater harvesting to systems for livestock, home use and landscaping.
“He will also demonstrate an in-home system and offer tips for creating a rain barrel,” she said.
“Conserving rainwater is seen as an important issue within both our counties,” Cooper said. “Although we have been blessed with great rainfall this year, it is still important to conserve what we have. This program will provide the tips and demonstrations to successfully collect and conserve this often scarce resource.”
One Texas Department of Agriculture continuing education unit in the general category will be offered.
Individual registration is $15 by Aug. 5 and $25 thereafter. The fee includes lunch.
For more information and to register, contact Cooper at 325-853-2132, tait.cooper@ag.tamu.edu, or Kennedy at 325-853-2711, laci.kennedy@ag.tamu.edu.
Texas A&M Agrilife Water Education Network
Website provides information regarding using water efficiently, managing water resources, and plans to further water conservation in the future. Website has information for homeowners, businesses, and farmers.
Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Aquaculture, Fisheries, and Pond Management Website
The web address is http://fisheries.tamu.edu/. Website contains information that will be helpful for Texas Residents. Viewers will be able to find information related to aquaculture and farm pond management.
