Document Type

Honors Thesis

Abstract

In the outskirts of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex (DFW), unincorporated communities like Sand Branch face unstable living conditions. Sand Branch, one of the poorest communities in North Texas, has struggled with water insecurity for decades due to the lack of municipal water infrastructure. Residents often rely on donations from nonprofit organizations to meet their basic water needs. This paper explores how implementing a Rainwater Harvesting System (RWH) could enhance their independence and resilience by providing a more sustainable water source. This research examines Sullivan’s work on sustainable housing policies for low-income self-built communities and evaluates the feasibility of RWH as a solution for Sand Branch. By analyzing similar case studies, regional rainfall patterns in DFW, and estimated water collection rates, this study assesses the potential impact of RWH in the community. The findings suggest that a Tlaloque system, like those in Isla Urbana, could be adapted to Sand Branch’s mobile homes to provide a viable water source. With RWH, approximately 36% of annual rainwater could be reused, reducing reliance on external aid. Implementing RWH could significantly improve long-term water security for Sand Branch, fostering greater self-sufficiency and environmental resilience.

Disciplines

Environmental Design | Urban, Community and Regional Planning

Publication Date

5-2025

Language

English

Faculty Mentor of Honors Project

Ariadna Reyes-Sanchez

Comments

I would like to sincerely thank Dr. Ariadna Reyes-Sanchez for her invaluable support, guidance, and patience throughout this research. Her insight into the infrastructure and circumstances of Sand Branch has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of how a Rainwater Harvesting System could be effectively implemented within the existing housing. I deeply appreciate her expertise and encouragement, which has greatly contributed to the development of this project.

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