An old-fashioned idea is gaining new interest for home dwellers, gardeners and people interested in protecting waterways and the environment while saving money on their water bills. Rain barrels are back in style!

Rain barrels, already a trend on the rise, collect free water from a roof and store it for future use in gardens and for watering lawns, shrubs, and trees. There are many great reasons to use a rain barrel or connect several in a series to collect even more rainwater.

1. Rain barrels provide a free supply of water for many uses.
2. Rainwater is free of chlorine and fluoride, typically found in tap water and it is the preferred choice of local residents with the best looking gardens.
3. Rainwater can help reduce pollution. Homeowners with rain barrels can disconnect their downspouts from the sewer systems, resulting in redirection of rainwater to permeable ground surfaces that filter and absorb the water. This natural filtering helps ensure a cleaner and replenished water supply for the entire community’s streams and rivers and prevents rainwater from going into the storm management systems.
4. When communities don’t have to manage as much stormwater, they can keep down water costs and related charges and taxes.
5. Rainwater, which is naturally acidic, can balance out the alkaline nature of soils near chemically basic concrete.
6. Rainwater also has the benefit of being a similar temperature as the air, and does not shock plants’ roots like tap water does. Overall, rainwater is a healthier option for plants.
7. When outdoor water restrictions are in place, water from a rain barrel can be used to water lawns or wash vehicles.
8. Residents can also use the water to clean floors and do laundry, and having a source of stored water can be beneficial if an emergency ever arises.
9. Redirecting rainwater away from a home’s foundation by using a rain barrel can help avoid flooding in basements.

Trinity United Church in Annan has launched a rain barrel sale to raise funds to support the congregation through this pandemic, and support our mission of Caring for Creation. They recognize the value of rain barrels in maintaining the health of the environment.

Local residents can keep their gardens healthy and well-nourished by ordering a rain barrel in advance of the May 15th pick-up date. Orders must be placed by May 7th at www.RainBarrel.ca/trinityunitedchurch. Ensure your lawns and gardens are as healthy as they can be, by using more rainwater in your gardening.

source: media release, Trinity United Church, Annan