Why Use a Rain Barrel?
Rain barrels are a great tool to conserve water and reduce stormwater runoff. During the summer months, outdoor tasks such as watering lawns and gardens typically make up about 40% of household water use. With seasonal droughts, restrictions and bans on lawn watering, and the increasing cost of water, it makes sense to use rain water instead of municipal water for outdoor uses as it results in significant cost savings for residents. Unless it is collected, rain water runs off impervious surfaces, such as roofs and pavement, gathering pollutants which often end up in local streams, rivers, pond, lakes and marine waters. Keeping and using rain water on your property helps reduce pollution, erosion and improves local watershed health. For additional information on the benefits of rain barrels, check out the MassDEP website.