When it rains in the city, water collects on sealed surfaces and flows into the drains and out to our waterways and bays.
In fact, more water falls on Melbourne every year than we need to irrigate our green spaces. This water is a valuable resource that can be used to keep our parks, gardens and trees healthy. Water collection systems, such as stormwater harvesting and rainwater harvesting, are an important tool in sustainable water management. Read about some of the City of Melbourne’s water collection systems in the case studies below.
Birrarung Marr stormwater harvesting system
A stormwater harvesting system has been built in one of Melbourne's most visited parks, allowing us to keep the space green and healthy without relying on drinking water.
This new stormwater harvesting system at Fitzroy Gardens is the largest in the City of Melbourne. It provides 30 million litres of water every year, helping us to keep the heritage garden healthy in a changing climate.