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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:
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Lawn and
gardening watering
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Cleaning
patio furniture or windows
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Vehicle
washing
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Replenishing water features
Benefits of
Rain Barrels
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Harvesting rain water can reduce your use of potable water
and save you money.
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Collected water helps recharge groundwater when used on
lawns and gardens.
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Collected water reduces stormwater pollution like sediment,
oil, grease, bacteria and nutrients, by diverting runoff
away from impervious such as roofs and driveways
Training is
Available:
UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension Services are holding monthly
rain barrel workshops at Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Road,
Sarasota. Classes begin Nov. 14. Classes are one hour.
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Saturday, Nov. 14, 10 a.m.
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Saturday, Dec. 12, 10 a.m.
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Saturday, Jan. 9, 2010, 10 a.m.
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Saturday, Feb. 13, 2010, 10 a.m.
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Saturday, March 13, 2010, 10 a.m.
To register
for upcoming classes, visit
http://sarasota.extension.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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