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Low-Cost Rain Barrels Are Still Available to Reduce Outdoor Water Use
More than 70 percent of the western United States is experiencing severe or extreme drought conditions, and Californians are still being asked to curb water consumption to preserve water supplies. To encourage water conservation, Olivenhain Municipal Water District, in partnership with neighboring water districts San Dieguito Water District, Santa Fe Irrigation District, and Carlsbad Municipal Water District, is offering discounted rain barrels to area residents through November 30.
Fifty-gallon barrels are on sale for $97, with a final cost of $62 after a $35 rebate from water wholesaler Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. Rebates on rain barrels and other water-saving measures are available at www.socalwatersmart.com.
Although average rainfall in San Diego County is just under ten inches annually, even light rain can provide a sufficient amount of water for later use. For example, a roof with a 1,000-square-foot surface area can capture 150 gallons from only a quarter of an inch of rain.
“By installing rain barrels in preparation for winter storms, our customers can supplement their outdoor irrigation with a free water source,” said OMWD Board Director Neal Meyers. “, capturing rain water for later use can also improve the water quality of our creeks, rivers, and beaches by reducing the amount of runoff that carries fertilizers, pesticides, and other contaminants into our waterways.”
Rain barrels ordered by November 30 will be available for pick up at Solana Center for Environmental Innovation at 137 North El Camino Real in Encinitas. Visit www.solanacenter.org/rain-barrels for more information and to order rain barrels.
