Using a Rain Barrel

A rain barrel is a container above ground that receives and stores rain water to allow for sustainable landscaping. By using a rain barrel, you can:

reduce the risk of erosion, storm water flow, pollution and flooding
decrease the amount of water going to the water treatment plant and storm sewers and minimize the amount of water that could be polluted by collecting oil, grease, and sediment on the roads before entering the storm sewers
decrease residential water consumption, which often increases 40-50% in the summer season due to increased demand for outdoor water
lower your water bills and save money!

A typical rain barrel is 55 gallons, and includes a down spout connection, a mosquito filter, an overflow spout for excess water, and a tap. A rain barrel can collect nearly 1,300 gallons of water during the peak summer months, depending where you live. The rain collected in the barrel is not considered drinkable water, but it is safe to use on flowers, the lawn, and non edible plants.

Maintenance
To maintain your rain barrel, you should clean it every now and again by adding a tablespoon of dish soap to the water inside your barrel to kill mosquito larvae (this also provides nutrients for your lawn and garden), and ensuring the screen on top of the barrel is clean so that it collects water properly.

Preparing your Rain Barrel for Winter
Before the winter season, you will need to drain and disconnect the rain barrel from the downspout. Store the barrel in a dry and covered spot like a garage or shed, and store the overflow hose indoors to prevent cracking. If you have to store the barrel outside, place it upside down and leave the water valve open.

April is Earth Month

Ideas to celebrate!

April 1st: With the snow melting and spring blossoming, aim to spend a minimum 5 minutes outside to pick-up trash that settled over the winter months.

April 18-24: Pitch In Week! This year marks the 45th Annual Pitch-In Week in Canada! Contact your local municipality to get involved in cleaning up the community! Severn Sound watershed municipalities with more information: