property owners improve stormwater runoff conditions on their property by installing
more natural drainage projects. These projects are designed to reduce the amount of
stormwater entering local streams, increase groundwater supply, and reduce chemical
and nutrient pollutants entering waterways."
One way residents are encouraged to help is by installing rain barrels. The city believes that installing rain barrels offers "benefits to each homeowner as well as the environment. For example, a homeowner may reduce the risk of flooding in his backyard or basement by collecting water for later use or slow release. Additionally, using water collected in rain barrels to wash cars and maintain landscaping will conserve water and lower your municipal water bill."
Here's the frustrating part about my city's rebate program- because there's always a frustrating part when you're dealing with the government, right? In order to claim a rebate from the city, residents have to fill out and submit an application, purchase an "approved" rain barrel, install it properly, have an inspection conducted by city staff to ensure it is installed properly (honestly, it's not rocket science), and finally receive a rebate.
Forget about the rebate if you're ahead of the curve and already have a rain barrel installed. You can just pat yourself on the back and continue to be a shining example to the rest of your community. You'll just have to fight that feeling that you've purchased something only to find it on sale the next week - no price adjustment option.
If you have NOT yet installed a rain barrel, please check with your city or county. A rebate may be offered. Workshops on making your own rain barrel may be offered. If not, consider installing one anyhow. You will be stunned that you ever stood there in front of your garden, hose in hand, watering your plants.
That's a sweet looking rain barrel!!!
ReplyDeleteOne of mine is a $13 trash can with the down spout running into it, no lid, no overflow, no spigot, nothing. But it works. My other rain barrel is a 50 gallon drum from ... are you ready for this... pesticide. :( I got it from a friend who had used it for a couple years, so I knew there was no residue left, and really it's the sturdiest plastic I could ask for.
I'm glad you mentioned this Melanie b/c a rain barrel really can be any container that will hold rain. My friend Grace has a barrel that sounds similar to your trash can set up. Simple container. She liked the spigot on mine and had her husband install one. Though it looks cool, she finds the slow water drip frustrating and prefers to dunk a watering can in the top like she originally did.
ReplyDelete