More on the Water Catchment Project

A new water catchment project has been completed at the Rhoden farm.  Compared to A&E’s past water catchment project, this tank is much bigger and will provide water for a much broader area.  While not for human consumption, this 16,000 gallon tank will be used to water several raised bed gardens in the surrounding area.

 “We can use the collected water instead of using city water in order to conserve,” said Dr. Nicodemus, assistant professor of environmental science.  “We will be able to use natural rain water rather than using treated water.”

 Both the water catchment project and the raised bed project will have research and classroom components for the students to be involved in.

 “I think the raised bed garden is going to be a great place for agricultural majors and other students interested in gardening to get hands-on experience,” said Aaron Shaver, senior vocational missions major from Hawkins, Texas.  “It’s also going to be an enjoyable place aesthetically so that people can get out of the city limits and enjoy nature a little.” 

 Now with a larger tank, the opportunities provided professors for experiential learning opportunities for student are much broader.  A&E believes in the importance of applying skills on top of textbook material. 

 “Working on this project has taught me how to apply what I have learned in a classroom in a practical way,” said Mandy Wilson, sophomore animal science pre-vet major from Upland, Cal.   “It is amazing how it has brought together the many aspects of my education into one design.”

 Not only do the A&E faculty and staff recognize the value of these projects, students are enthusiastic about them as well.

 “I see two main, significant points of value that deal with the water catchment tank,” said Erika Carley, sophomore agricultural business and communications major from Auburn, Cal.  “First, it was extremely beneficial for students, including myself, to have the opportunity for hands-on experience with the construction, testing and experimentation of the catchment system. The second value that the tank offered is that the ACU Agricultural and Environmental Sciences department lived by the departmental mission by taking an active role in the implementation of a piece of equipment that promotes sustainable agriculture.”

 An alum of the department and rainwater harvesting specialist, Billy Kniffen (’71) has been a vital aid in the completion of this project.

 “He’s a motivated individual,” said Dr. James Cooke, professor of environmental science.  “He has donated his time and skill to help this project come to fruition.”

 The students also appreciated the chance to work alongside Kniffen on this project and learn from him as he taught them.

 “Billy Kniffen is an amazing man of God with a true servant’s heart,” said Wilson. “…and he has been a great pleasure to work with. His involvement with our water catchment and irrigation system was invaluable. He has been exceedingly generous with his time and resources, and has always made himself available for anything we have had need of. ACU should be proud to claim him as an alumnus.”

The A&E department is excited about the completion of this project and the learning experience it has already provided, and will provide, for A&E students.