Rain Barrels — Respect Our Waters

Rain barrels - They make a difference!

During a storm, rainwater runs through downspouts, and across impervious surfaces including roads, parking lots, and turf grass. Along the way, it picks up surface pollutants and brings them quickly to nearby bodies of water at rates and amounts that harm water quality. The same rush of stormwater can also flood homes and basements, which can lead to costly repercussions. One inch of rain on a 1,000-square-foot roof will produce ~600 gallons of water. Therefore, every rain barrel installed at roof downspouts can help prevent a sizable amount of stormwater from becoming a flooded home or water pollution.

What Should I Know Before Buying and Installing?

Choose a sturdy barrel with a lid or mesh screen on top to prevent leaves and insects from getting inside; spigots for easy drainage; and overflow valves to direct excess water away from sensitive areas such as a home foundation.
Install ONLY on level and elevated surfaces using concrete/cinder blocks or a sturdy wooden stand. Elevating increases pressure, allowing the water to flow faster.
Hose placement is important! The water won’t flow into the barrel if the hole in the barrel is higher than the hole in the downspout diverter.
Store your rain barrel properly in winter. Leaving it out and collecting water in the winter can damage it through the freezing process, causing it to crack.
There are many tutorials online that show proper installation techniques. You can also use the “Rain Barrel Installation & Maintenance Guides” found below.
Many cities and towns offer incentives for using rain barrels! If you pay a stormwater fee, check to see if a rebate is offered. Some municipalities will offer periodic sales on barrels or may even give them away for free!
Local groups such as Kiwanis clubs, scout troops, and other organizations sometimes offer rain barrel fundraisers. Check out your community’s website to see what is available in your area!