Rain Harvest Works

For over a decade, Go Green Auto Care has been at the forefront of rainwater harvesting advocacy in Virginia, proving that businesses can thrive while embracing sustainability. At the heart of this fight were Tyrone and Leslie Jarvis, a husband-and-wife team whose relentless determination turned a $5,000 water bill crisis into a statewide movement for water independence.

Their journey began unexpectedly when Tyrone discovered a massive water leak at his shop, leaving him with an overwhelming utility bill and a deep frustration over wasted resources. When a city employee jokingly suggested he should "catch rain" to solve the problem, Tyrone and Leslie took the comment as inspiration rather than a joke. Determined to find a more sustainable solution, they began extensively researching rainwater harvesting, sourcing equipment, and gradually assembling a filtration system. After months of trial and error, they successfully built a fully functional rainwater purification system using UV and carbon filtration to produce crystal-clear, drinkable water.

Excited by their breakthrough, they reached out to Newport News city officials, hoping to share their findings and showcase rainwater harvesting as a viable, sustainable alternative for businesses and homes. Instead of encouragement, they were met with resistance and legal roadblocks. The city condemned their business, citing code violations that made no allowances for harvested rainwater use, and forced them to reconnect to municipal water—a crushing setback that nearly derailed their efforts.

Rather than accepting defeat, Tyrone and Leslie took their fight to state lawmakers. Through persistent advocacy and outreach, they caught the attention of Delegate David Yancey, who recognized the potential of rainwater harvesting and agreed to work alongside them to draft legislation. Their efforts culminated in HB192, a 2018 bill that unanimously passed the Virginia legislature, directing the state to develop formal regulations for potable rainwater harvesting.

Leslie played a pivotal role in this battle, conducting in-depth research, crafting policy arguments, and ensuring that their push for reform extended beyond their own business to benefit other businesses and homeowners alike. Her background in environmental studies and commitment to sustainability helped shape the broader conversation around water security, paving the way for future legislative advancements.

But the fight isn’t over. Today, the Jarvis family is pushing even further, advocating for a new bill currently awaiting Governor Youngkin’s approval that would expand rainwater harvesting rights even more, making it easier for individuals and businesses to legally integrate rainwater systems into their daily operations.

Rainwater harvesting is an incredibly valuable and underutilized water source. While some may not be comfortable drinking purified rainwater, at the very least, using it for toilet flushing, washing cars, irrigation, and other non-potable uses could drastically reduce water demand, lessen the burden on municipal water systems, and save consumers money. It provides a sustainable, cost-effective solution in regions where groundwater is depleting or city water is expensive.

Today, Go Green Auto Care operates primarily on harvested rainwater, proving that sustainable practices are both practical and essential. The Jarvis family remains dedicated to expanding public awareness, education, and advocacy on rainwater harvesting. Their story—from early struggles and legal battles to legislative triumphs—stands as a powerful example of how determined individuals can drive real change.

The sign outside their shop says it best: “We’re powered by rain!”