DNREC offers rain barrels at discount price to Delawareans
To encourage water conservation and promote wise use of it throughout the state, the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control’s Division of Watershed Stewardship is again offering rain barrels at a discounted price to Delaware residents in April at pickup locations in each county.
Having a rain barrel provides an innovative way to capture rainwater from the roof and store it for later use. Water collected from rain barrels can be used to wash cars and to water lawns, gardens and indoor plants.
The barrels are made from recycled food-grade barrels that originally entered the United States filled with olives and pickles. The barrels are thoroughly scrubbed and are fitted with a screw-on perforated top with an inside mesh screen to help keep out debris, bugs, pets and children. Included are a spigot and an overflow hose fitting to allow water to be diverted into a second barrel.
Rain barrels will be available for pickup for Sussex County residents between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. or until all barrels are sold, Thursday, April 18, at the Division of Watershed Stewardship, Lewes Facility, next to the Lewes boat ramp at 901 Pilottown Road. For directions, go to www.swc.dnrec.delaware.gov/Shoreline/Pages/LewesFieldFacility.aspx.
Barrels will fit in the back seat of most cars but not in most normal trunk space, so drivers may want to bring a tarp or blanket to protect the seat. A limited number of barrels is available, and they will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Regular retail price for these heavy-duty plastic barrels is $120 or more. However, by purchasing the rain barrels in quantity, DNREC’s Nonpoint Source Program can offer them for $59 each.
In addition to the barrels, Flex Fit Diverters, which connect the downspout to the barrel, will be available at a discounted price of $19.85. To view diverters visit www.rainbarrelsandmore.com.
For more information, call Sharon Webb at 302-739-9922, or email sharon.webb@state.de.us. To check on availability during distribution, call 302-739-9922. Payment may be made by check or money order made out to “State of Delaware.” Credit cards cannot be accepted.
