March 12, 2009 Issue
Rain Barrels for Everyone
Inexpensive Rain Barrels Available to Watauga and Avery County Residents
This graphic shows views of the model of rain barrel that the Watauga County Cooperative Extension, the Watauga County Soil and Water Conservation Committee and the Town of Boone are offering to residents at discount prices. Photo submitted
Although snow and rain have been more prevalent recently in the High Country, the region is still experiencing a moderate drought, according to the North Carolina Drought Management Council, which means locals are becoming more aware of the need for water-saving devices and techniques.
Rain barrels are an easy way for citizens to become more frugal and responsible water consumers, and the Watauga County Cooperative Extension and the Town of Banner Elk are making it simple for residents to purchase the rain barrels at discount prices this month.
Watauga County Rain Barrel Sale
The Watauga County Cooperative Extension, the Watauga County Soil and Water Conservation Committee and the Town of Boone are sponsoring a rain barrel sale for residents of Watauga County. During the sale, rain barrels cost $90, which is more than 40 percent cheaper than normal retail price. The same barrels sell online for $149 by clicking to www.rainwatersolutions.com. The extension is buying the barrels in bulk to save money for residents.
Watauga County residents must preorder and prepay for the barrels by Friday, April 3. Money can be dropped off at the Watauga County Cooperative Extension office, located at 971 West King Street, or Boone Public Works, located at 321 East King Street. Once ordered, the barrels will arrive in late April or early May.
For more information, call the extension at 828-264-3061, the Town of Boone at 828-268-6250 or 828-264-0842.
Avery County Rain Barrel Sale
The Town of Banner Elk is sponsoring a rain barrel sale for residents of Avery County. During the sale, rain barrels also cost $90, which is more than 40 percent cheaper than normal retail price.
Avery County residents must preorder and prepay for the barrels by Friday, March 27. Interested residents are asked to preorder and prepay for the rain barrels by calling Maria Boseman, Town of Banner Elk administrative assistant, at 828-898-5398, extension 224. The barrels will arrive in April.
Rain Barrel Information
Rainwater is a high-quality source of water, and rainwater that collects on roofs and is stored appropriately represents a sustainable source of water.
Rain barrels help conserve water by collecting and storing rainwater from roofs for reuse in watering lawns, gardens and houseplants and for washing vehicles and outdoor furniture. For instance, when rainwater is used for toilet flushing, laundry and garden use alone, it can reduce water use in a typical household by as much as 70 percent.
The rain barrels available to Watauga County and Avery County residents are manufactured in North Carolina out of 100 percent recycled plastic, and are black, which reduces any algae issues. The 65-gallon capacity barrels feature two spigot locations and two overflow options. They are also mosquito proof and feature a three-year warranty. The rain barrel is a gravity-controlled system that does not require pumps or mechanical add-ons.
Community Interest
News & Notes
Events
Arts & Entertainment
