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Rain Barrels

Rain barrels – like rain gardens – are a great way to reduce flooding and improve water quality in local lakes and streams. But this “old” technology can actually help you save money at home by collecting rainwater and storing it for later use.

The water stored in rain barrels is excellent for watering thirsty plants around your home or in your garden. Rain barrels are also useful at places of business or municipal buildings. Designed rain barrels are healthier than traditional open barrels, because the modern barrels are sealed off, prohibiting mosquitoes from reproducing in the stored water.

By disconnecting your downspouts and redirecting water into a rain barrel, you can make sure that your source of drinking water will have an adequate supply in dry times. All supplies of water are finite – there’s only so much water – and using rainwater from rain barrels will reduce your use of drinking water at home.