Description:

In 2010, Marjetica Potrč & Marguerite Kahrl developed a rainwater-harvesting system for a farm on Sant'Erasmo island in the Venice Lagoon. Rainwater is collected from a rooftop catchment system that is used to irrigate the crops in the greenhouse. Venice is currently facing serious water resource threats as the lagoon subsides and as a result, is limiting water use from underground aquifers. By creating sustainable and alternate methods of catchment and irrigation, small farmers are able to maintain their livelihoods and provide food for the surrounding areas.

Goals:

To respond to changing climate and urban resource needs in Venice by creating a sustainable alternative for accessing water. To support a local farm. To encourage a paradigm shift so that the city of Venice once more has a symbiotic relationship with its water.

Beneficial Outcomes:

The farm is able to use rainwater to irrigate crops, leaving more water in Venice’s aquifers.

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