Access to fresh, clean water around the world is getting scarcer by the minute. The growing privatization of our finite supply of fresh water is a great reason to start collecting and reusing rainwater in a number of ways.

Many people let the rain that falls on their roof run away. They then use drinking water piped in from afar for washing floors and watering plants. Here’s a handy, mosquito-proof rain barrel we put together that buffers 55 gallons of water and adds a handsome accent to your yard. This can be especially valuable during droughts.

To create a water (and money) saving rainwater flush, try a barrel system, We removed part of a downspout, and replaced it with an accordion-folded plastic extension from the hardware store. This runs into a funnel, and into a 3-in. hole conveniently provided in the barrel lid.

For more tips by Make go to www.makezine.com.