Lawn and garden watering make up nearly 40% of total household water use during the summer. A rain barrel collects water and stores it for when you need it most -- during periods of drought -- to water plants, wash your car, or to top a swimming pool. It provides an ample supply of free "soft water" to homeowners, containing no chlorine, lime or calcium making it ideal for gardens, flower pots, and car and window washing.

Why use a Rain Barrel?

• Save Water. A rain barrel will save most homeowners about 1,300 gallons of water during the peak summer months.
• Save Money and Energy. Saving water not only helps protect the environment, it saves you money and energy (decreased demand for treated tap water).
• Divert Water from Water Bodies. Diverting water from storm drains decreases the impact of runoff to streams and lakes.

Ready-made rain barrels come in a variety of shapes and sizes.  They can be purchased from a number of companies including hardware stores and garden supply stores.