Rain Barrels Mean Green Lawns, Healthy Gardens And Clean Water Supplies
More and more people are returning to the use of rain barrels. The most likely reasons for this are drought situations occurring in many parts of the country as well as an increasing awareness of the need for water conservation in general.
The drivers that make people choose to collect rainwater vary. Many see it as the answer to maintaining green lawns and healthy gardens despite watering restrictions in water poor cities and towns. Others turn to rain barrels to keep their water bills down. Other than drinking and cooking, water from rain barrels or cisterns can fill a multitude of needs.
Finally , some people choose to set up rain barrels simply because they are concerned about water conservation in itself.
Rain barrels can be purchased commercially or made from recycled wooden or plastic storage barrels. Regardless of the source of your barrel, you will need the following basics:
1.
Rain gutter and downspout
2.
Barrel or other large container
3. Debris screen
4. Tight fitting lid
5.
Spout or outlet hose
If you already have rain gutters on your home you have a head start. You will have to install them if you do not have them. A downspout will divert the rainwater into the waiting container.
Rain barrels can be wood or plastic, new or recycled. If you choose to use a recycled barrel, be certain to learn what has been stored in it to assure you will not be reentering toxins into the water. Solid, fitted covers ensure rain barrels will not be a danger to children. Rain barrels need a distribution outlet in the form of a spout with a valve or a piece of hose. A benefit of harvesting rainwater is that it has no chlorine or other chemicals which makes it healthy for plants. Even when watering bans are not in place, recycling rainwater for the sprinkler, etc. insures more water for consumption. When heavy rains fill the drainage system, it mixes with polutants and carries them off into the natural waterways. Natural drainage through the soil and rock bed purifies the water before it reenters the ecosystem.
On a personal level, using rain barrels to collect and store rainwater helps your wallet as well as your plants. It is also good for the environment by reducing consumption and improving the quality of our natural water supplies.