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Free delivery of rain barrels in Cook County
Updated: October 2, 2012 2:19PM
Chicago
Rain barrels might seem unnecessary during a drought, but they can be most helpful during limited precipitation.
Rain barrels capture and preserve what little rain water we receive, to provide a ready supply of water for your gardens and lawns.
The cost of rain barrels from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago now includes free home delivery. The 55-gallon containers are available for $58 plus tax each for Cook County residents. The rain barrel program is a part of the MWRD’s mission to promote water conservation and environmental responsibility. Home delivery makes it easier for residents to participate.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, a rain barrel can save most homeowners about 1,300 gallons of water during peak summer months. Rain barrels hold a supply of rain water for outdoor use that otherwise would have been diverted to storm drains and sewers.
“Installing a rain barrel is one of the easiest ways to save money on your water bill while conserving water and preventing storm sewers from filling up,” said Commissioner Debra Shore. “It’s a win-win scenario for everyone.”
Rain barrels are especially beneficial for gardeners during periods of drought and infrequent rain. A brief and heavy rainfall can fill up a rain barrel and provide a supplemental – and free – water supply for lawns and gardens, possibly providing enough water to last until the next rain storm.
“Even though it hasn’t rained very much this summer, we really appreciated having it during the storm in June,” said Laura Brauer, a Chicago resident. “We used the water in our garden, so it’s really beneficial for us.”
With nearly three months remaining before it’s too cold to store rain water outside, it’s not too late to benefit from a rain barrel of your own. Capture and store water for your yard and garden, reduce your water consumption, save money and help the MWRD protect our water environment.
Rain barrels may be purchased at www.mwrd.org.~.
