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Sarasota County Utilities, Water
Rain Barrel Harvesting Program
Click to enlarge
Rain barrel's even fit in Smart cars

Rain barrels are storage containers that collect rain water from downspouts. Downspouts lead the rain water from the roof to the ground or stormwater system. Rain barrels usually consist of a plastic storage container with a lid, a system that diverts water into the barrel, an overflow that diverts water away from the house, a screen to keep out debris, and a water spigot to which a hose can attach. The rain barrel is connected into the downspout system to capture and store rain water.

Rain barrel FAQs

Uses for Rain Barrels

Store rain water for:

  • Lawn and gardening watering
  • Cleaning patio furniture or windows
  • Vehicle washing
  • Replenishing water features

Benefits of Rain Barrels

  • Harvesting rain water can reduce your use of potable water and save you money.
  • Collected water helps recharge groundwater when used on lawns and gardens.
  • Collected water reduces stormwater pollution like sediment, oil, grease, bacteria and nutrients, by diverting runoff away from impervious surfaces such as roofs and driveways.

Training is Available:
UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Services are holding monthly rain barrel workshops. Classes are one hour.

To register for upcoming classes, visit http://sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu/.

How Can I Get a Rain Barrel?
Rain barrels will be available for purchase on a monthly basis at 6700 Clark Road, Twin Lakes Park, Sarasota, Florida beginning on Nov. 14, 2009. Look for the county booth where county staff will be available after the Rain Barrel Workshops listed above.

Barrels are available for purchase for $37, including tax. Payment may be made by check or cash (exact change only).

 
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