Earthcraft Landscape Design planned and created a Japanese garden for Jim and Carolyn Bowen in 1992. When the garden was originally designed, the Bowen’s well produced sufficient water for both domestic use and irrigation purposes. However, about six months after their house was completed, the original well stopped producing and became only a minimal source of water. The Bowens bought water and drilled more wells, but they were still unable to generate enough water for both their house and garden.

The Bowens reviewed their water shortage problems with Earthcraft. They needed more water to maintain their robust garden. The Bowens also discussed their costly solution ($500 per month) of trucking in water every other week. Looking at the possibility and expense (approximately $30,000) of drilling yet another well that would be problematic at best (they had already drilled five marginal wells), Earthcraft decided to design a water catchment system to collect rainwater from their 4,000 square foot tile roof and store it in tanks.

To-date, April 2006, the system has captured in excess of 250,000 gallons of rainwater—The Bowens have had the harvested water tested and the water is potable, although it is being used solely for landscape irrigation on their 2-acre site in the Santa Cruz mountains.

Jim Bowen is keeping track of his total water accumulation and thoroughly enjoys it when it rains. He says, "We have pure fresh water, feel more secure and independent and the water catchment system is paying for itself. Our garden loves it!"

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