rain barrels

Storm water run-off is the #1 cause of pollution in urban lakes and rivers.  By keeping the water on our property we prevent it from collecting pollution and flowing into our bay.

The point of having a rain barrel is to capture the water during a rain event for later use.   Rain barrels are installed underneath a downspout for your gutters where it will collect the rain. This water can be used for irrigating your flowers, trees, shrubs and lawn.  Avoid using it on parts of plants you plan to eat (fruits, vegetables, leafy greens) as water from roofs and gutters can sometimes contain bacteria or fungi that shouldn't be consumed. 

Here are some other benefits:

• Reduce run-off and erosion on your property.
• Provide an alternative water source for landscape plants.
• Reduce use of municipal water to water plants, which may lower your water bill.  With regular use it is estimated to save 1,400 gallons of water each year.
• Rainwater is slightly acidic and may contain minerals that benefit plants.