SWCD now has rain barrels available

Van Wert independent/SWCD information

The Van Wert Soil & Water Conservation District now has rain barrels available to purchase.   The rain barrels are 55-gallon recycled food grade barrels with a spigot, drain plug, a 1¼-inch outlet that fills the system quickly and installs easily, and 3-foot flexible hose to connect to the diverter. A winterizing cap is also included.

The barrel will work with 2-by-3 inch 3-by-4 inch and 3-inch round downspouts. The only thing needed to install the rain barrel is to drill into the downspout and connect the diverter.

What is a Rain Barrel? A rain barrel is an above ground container that collects and stores rainwater from downspouts and rooftops for future uses, such as watering lawns, gardens and planters. The rain barrel

is filled by routing a downspout into the barrel and allowing it to harvest the natural rainwater. The rainwater can then be used for plants by attaching a hose to the included spigot.                                    

Why use a Rain Barrel? Area residents will have a supply of free natural rainwater to use around their home or garden. Collecting rainwater reduces run-off, which reduces nutrient and sediment loads in our rivers and streams. Rainwater is free and area residents are saving money by collecting natural rainwater to use around the home. Help save plants and newly planted trees in times of drought. It is responsible conservation and a “green” alternative.

Helpful Hints:

• If a lawn sprinkler is run on a full flow for 30 minutes approximately 140-160 gallons of water will be used.
• A half-inch of rainfall on a 1,000 square-foot roof can yield approximately 310 gallons of water.
• Winter storage — remember to completely empty a rain barrel and use a winter cap to prevent water accumulation that could freeze and crack the barrel.

The rain barrels are available at the Van Wert SWCD office, 1185 Professional Drive in Van Wert, and are being sold for $50.