2015 Rain Barrel Sale Now in Progress

Protect our Water Resources by Reusing Water Around the Home and Landscape

Go to the following website to order your rain barrel. 

http://www.rainbarrelprogram.org/watauga-county

Though the high country has had good precipitation amounts this past year, we still cannot take our water for granted.  As we saw a few years ago, supplies can be altered at the “drop of a hat” during drought conditions.  According to Wendy Patoprsty, Extension Agent for Watauga County, “rainwater in the high country represents a high quality source of water available to us, there is no reason we should let it flow away without using it.”  It can take a very long time for our natural groundwater to recharge.  Depending on the landscape, it can take anywhere from one year to 1,000 years to infiltrate into the aquifers. 

Lane Weiss of the Town of Boone Water Conservation Program says “harvesting rain water prevents water from pooling around the foundation of your home, and helps prevent erosion.  This harvested water can be used for various purposes including washing your dog, watering gardens, rinsing tools, washing cars and windows.”  There is no reason to use treated city water or groundwater for these types of uses. 

“Rain barrels are a great way to water your plants and shrubs or your raised bed veggie gardens.  They are so simple a kid can use them,” says Janie Poe, of Watauga County Soil and Water Conservation District.  The Town of Boone, Watauga County Cooperative Extension, and the Watauga County Soil and Water Conservation District have partnered to provide rain barrels to the community at a reduced cost.   In order to get your savings, you must order your barrel online by April 24th.  We are able to offer the discounted rates because of bulk purchasing and delivery.  These barrels typically cost $129, but we are getting them for $75!  The pick up day will be Friday May 1^st, 2015.

According to the EPA, 40% of household water usage in summer is from lawn and garden watering. Homeowners can save 1,300 gallons of tap water every summer by purchasing a rain barrel. http://www.epa.gov/reg3esd1/garden/pdf/what-is-rainbarrel.pdf

How to order:

Go to the following website to order your rain barrel. 

http://www.rainbarrelprogram.org/watauga-county

You must place your order by April 24^th, 2015 in order to get the discount on the barrel.    The barrels will be available for pick up on Friday May 1^st for the one-day pick up event. 

What sets this rain barrel apart from others?

* Made in NC from 100% recycled plastic.

* Mosquito proof

* Best in class overflow set up to withstand heavy rains so barrel won’t back up into gutters.  This barrel has optional flow direction with capabilities to attach multiple barrels.

Top 5 Reasons to Harvest Rainwater!
* Protect our rivers and streams from runoff pollution
* Divert water from the municipal storm drain system
* Conserve this vital natural resource and reduce your water bills
* Use the rain water to grow healthy and lush plants
* Control moisture levels around the foundation of your home

For more information call 264-3061(Cooperative Extension) 268-6250(Town of Boone), or 264-0842(Watauga County Soil and Water).