Closing the Water Cycle at Auchernack

Water is one of the most precious resources on the planet, and at Auchernack we believe every drop that falls on the building should be put to work before it ever reaches a drain. The Auchernack Rainwater Harvesting System does exactly that — collecting rainfall from the full roof area, storing it in characterful donated whisky barrels, and returning it to use throughout the building and its extensive surrounding gardens.

The System

All existing rainwater downpipes have been rerouted to feed directly into a bank of donated traditional oak whisky barrels. These generously-sized vessels act as the primary collection point, holding thousands of litres of harvested rainwater and giving the system a visual identity that is unmistakably Highland in character.

From the barrels, a submersible pump lifts the stored water back up to the building's original Victorian-era water tanks, which still sit in the loft space above the main building. Reusing these historic tanks means no new civil engineering is required — the existing pipework, header tanks and gravity-fed distribution throughout the building are all retained.

Before the water enters the header tanks, it passes through a UV purification filter. Ultraviolet treatment destroys bacteria, viruses and other pathogens without adding any chemicals to the water, making it safe for all non-potable uses.

How the Water is Used

• Toilet flushing — Every toilet in the building is fed from the loft tanks. Flushing accounts for roughly 30% of a typical building's mains water demand; supplying this entirely from harvested rainwater delivers an immediate and significant reduction in utility consumption and cost.
• Garden irrigation — Auchernack's extensive gardens require substantial watering throughout the growing season. A secondary feed from the loft tanks supplies the garden irrigation system, eliminating the need to draw on the mains supply for outdoor use even during dry spells.

Why Whisky Barrels?

The barrels were generously donated by local distilleries. Aside from giving the project a strong sense of place, oak barrels have a natural tannin lining that offers mild antibacterial properties and they are built to last generations. They are positioned to be visible to visitors as a conversation piece — a tangible symbol of Auchernack's commitment to resourcefulness and sustainability.

Environmental Impact

Scotland receives an average of 1,500–2,000 mm of rainfall per year in this region. Based on the total roof catchment area at Auchernack, the system is designed to harvest in excess of 100,000 litres annually — water that would otherwise flow straight to the storm drain. By diverting it to productive use, the project reduces demand on the mains supply, lowers the building's water bills, and reduces the volume of surface runoff entering local watercourses.

Combined with Auchernack's solar generation and netZero lighting upgrade, this project forms a key pillar of the site's ambition to become a genuinely self-sufficient and sustainable community hub for Forres and the surrounding area.

Get Involved

The project is underway with donated barrels already in place. We are still seeking support for the pump, pipework, UV filter unit and installation costs. If you can help with materials, skills, or funding — please get in touch or use the button below to contribute.