RAINXCHANGE® 29”
RAIN BARREL
40”
screened gutter inlet
video on
Capturing the Rain By Ed Beaulieu, Chief Sustainability Offi cer
WHERE DOES THE RAIN GO? When it rains, did you ever wonder where the rainwater goes? Sure, some of it soaks into your garden and lawn and some of it evaporates. But surprisingly, the majority of it ends up in the ocean. I know this may sound strange – especially if you live right smack in the middle of North America, miles and miles from the nearest ocean. Excess rainwater fl ows into a sewer or retention basin, which eventually leads to a stream or river which fl ows to the ocean.
During this journey, the water picks up pollutants – many of which come from pesticides and chemicals applied to our lawns – carrying them to the ocean. You may have heard about fi sh kills and dead zones in the ocean with one of the largest fl oating off shore in the Gulf of Mexico. The Mississippi River discharges enormous volumes of water loaded with suspended solids, excess nutrients, and pesticides. This concoction of pollutants means the water is devoid of life.
To keep this from getting worse, diminish or eliminate the use of lawn fertilizers and pesticides. If we don’t use them, they can’t get into our waterways.You can also install a rain barrel to capture the rain, which
you can then use to irrigate your garden. A BARREL O’ RAIN DROPS
The best way to keep rainwater on your property is to capture the water fl owing off your roof. Simply install a rain barrel directly under the downspout. Rain barrels come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but try to fi nd one that holds more than 50 gallons. It will fi ll up faster than you think!
Also be sure to purchase a rain barrel with an automatic overfl ow system that directs excess water away from your house. In a heavy rain storm, you don’t want to worry about your rain barrel overfl owing and water leaking into a nearby basement window. Remember, you’ll benefi t from multiple rain barrels if you have a larger roof.
Now that you’ve collected all this rainwater, what do you do with it? Back in the 70’s, it was all the rage to wash your hair with rainwater, with claims that your hair would be silky smooth. It might be easier, however, to connect a hose to the spigot on your rain barrel and water your landscaping. Rainwater is fi lled with benefi cial nutrients and is much better for your plants than municipal water.
In addition to protecting our waterways, capturing the rain will enhance and feed your gardens, keeping them healthier while cutting back on your utility bills at the same time.
RainXchange®
RainXchange® Rain Barrel Features:
• Large 75-gallon capacity • 5-year warranty • Requires no electricity
• Large safety overfl ow keeps water in the barrel or away from the house • Lid can also be used as a planter
• Thick plastic walls are durable and will withstand extreme conditions. • Childproof lockable lid
• Brass spigot for garden hose connection • Made in the U.S.A.
Terra Cotta Rain Barrel Unit Weight: 30 lbs. #98766
Sandstone Rain Barrel Unit Weight: 30 lbs. #98767
Terra Cotta
Sandstone
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