Constructing an Improvised Wilderness Cistern

Picture yourself in the vast, untamed wilderness, where water is scarce and survival depends on resourcefulness. In such a challenging environment, constructing an improvised wilderness cistern becomes a crucial skill to master.

But how does one go about creating a reservoir that can sustain you in the harshest of conditions? By following a simple yet strategic process, you can harness the power of nature and turn it into your life-saving ally.

So, gather your wits and prepare to embark on a journey where ingenuity meets necessity, as we delve into the art of constructing an improvised wilderness cistern.

Assessing the Water Needs

To determine the amount of water required, assess your specific needs and consider factors such as climate, duration of stay, and the number of individuals in your group. Each person needs a minimum of 2 liters of water per day for survival, but this amount may increase depending on the climate and physical activity. In hot and arid regions, you’ll need to consume more water to stay hydrated and compensate for sweating. Additionally, if you plan to engage in strenuous activities like hiking or carrying heavy loads, you’ll require additional water to replenish the fluids lost through perspiration.

The duration of your stay is another crucial factor to consider. If you’re only camping for a day or two, you can manage with less water. However, if your trip extends beyond a few days, it’s advisable to plan for a greater water supply or explore alternative water sources in the wilderness.

Lastly, the number of individuals in your group directly impacts the water requirements. Remember to account for each person’s needs when calculating the necessary water supply. It’s crucial to ensure that everyone has enough water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene throughout the trip.

Choosing an Ideal Location

Assessing your water needs is crucial, and now it’s time to choose an ideal location for your improvised wilderness cistern. When selecting a location, there are a few key factors to consider.

Firstly, you’ll want to find a spot that’s close to a reliable water source. Look for areas near rivers, streams, or natural springs, as these will provide a consistent supply of water to fill your cistern. It’s important to ensure that the water source isn’t contaminated or polluted, as this can affect the quality of water stored in your cistern.

Additionally, take into account the terrain of the chosen location. It’s best to find a spot that’s relatively flat and sturdy, as this will make it easier to construct and maintain your cistern. Avoid areas prone to flooding or erosion, as this can damage the cistern and compromise its effectiveness.

Consider the proximity to your campsite or living area as well. Select a location that’s convenient and accessible, minimizing the distance you’ll have to travel to collect water. This will save you time and effort when using the water stored in your cistern.

Lastly, think about the surrounding vegetation. Avoid areas with dense tree cover, as falling leaves and debris can contaminate the water. Instead, choose a location with open space and minimal vegetation.

Gathering Necessary Materials

Now, let’s gather all the necessary materials for constructing your improvised wilderness cistern.

You’ll need a few key items to ensure the success of your project. First, gather a large tarp or plastic sheeting that’s capable of holding a significant amount of water. Look for a durable material that won’t tear easily.

Next, find a sturdy container, such as a barrel or large plastic drum, to serve as the main storage unit for your cistern. Make sure it has a tight-fitting lid to prevent any contaminants from entering the water.

To collect rainwater, you’ll need a system of gutters and downspouts. Check if you have any spare gutters lying around, or you may need to purchase them from a local hardware store. Additionally, you’ll need a downspout diverter to direct the water into your cistern.

Lastly, gather a few basic tools to help with the construction process. These may include a drill, screws, a utility knife, and a measuring tape. It’s also a good idea to have some rope or bungee cords on hand to secure the tarp or plastic sheeting in place.

With these materials, you’ll be well on your way to constructing your improvised wilderness cistern.

Digging the Cistern Hole

Start by selecting a suitable location for your cistern and begin digging the hole. The location should be close to a water source, such as a stream or a natural spring. Ensure that the ground is stable and not prone to erosion. A flat area is preferable to avoid any potential issues with water flow.

Before digging, mark the perimeter of the cistern with stakes and string to help guide you. Use a shovel or a digging tool to break ground. Start by removing the top layer of soil and set it aside for later use. Then, continue digging deeper, keeping the sides as straight as possible. The depth of the hole will depend on the size of your cistern and the amount of water you want to store.

As you dig, periodically check the depth and width of the hole to ensure it meets your desired specifications. Remove any rocks or roots that may obstruct the construction of the cistern. Once the hole is dug to the desired depth and width, smooth out the sides and bottom to create a stable surface for the cistern.

With the hole dug, you can now move on to the next step of constructing your improvised wilderness cistern.

Constructing the Cistern Walls

After ensuring that the hole is dug to the desired depth and width, it’s time to focus on constructing the walls of your improvised wilderness cistern.

The first step in building the walls is to line the hole with a layer of plastic sheeting or tarp. This will help prevent water leakage and ensure that your cistern remains watertight.

Next, gather rocks or stones of varying sizes to create a sturdy and stable wall. Begin by placing larger rocks at the bottom, creating a solid foundation. Then, stack smaller rocks on top, interlocking them for added strength. Make sure to leave small gaps between the rocks to allow water to flow into the cistern.

To further reinforce your cistern walls, mix cement by combining one part cement, three parts sand, and enough water to create a thick paste. Apply this mixture to the exterior of the rock wall, smoothing it out with a trowel. This will add an extra layer of protection and durability.

Securing and Filtering the Water Supply

To secure and filter your water supply, consider using a simple yet effective filtration system.

When it comes to securing the water supply in your improvised wilderness cistern, it’s crucial to prevent any contaminants from entering the system. One way to achieve this is by using a fine mesh screen at the water inlet. This screen will help to stop any large debris or insects from entering the cistern and potentially contaminating the water. Additionally, it’s essential to ensure that the cistern is properly sealed to prevent any leakage that could introduce impurities into the water.

To filter the water supply, you can use a gravity-fed filtration system. This type of system is relatively simple to construct and can effectively remove sediment, bacteria, and other impurities. Start by placing a layer of activated charcoal at the bottom of a container, followed by a layer of sand, and finally a layer of gravel. As the water passes through these layers, the charcoal will help to remove odors and chemicals, while the sand and gravel will act as physical filters, trapping sediment and debris.

Remember to regularly clean and replace the filtration system to maintain its effectiveness.