How Can Rain Barrels Help?
During periods of excessive rainfall, rain barrels are an effective way to capture and divert the large amounts of water that comes down gutter downspouts. Studies show an average roof (1,000 SF) sends down 630 gallons of water for every 1″ of rain. With concerns about flooding and rain water runoff polluting our rivers and streams, rain barrels can play an important role in stemming the tide. Heavy rainfalls risk overwhelming municipal sewer systems or pouring into creeks and rivers where the torrential currents erode stream beds and carry pollutants into holding ponds and lakes. During periods of low rainfall or in drought prone areas of the country, rain barrels help conserve water. During summer months, 40% of our water usage goes to outdoor and landscape activities. Rain barrels capture and store water for use during these dry periods. Watering restrictions are becoming more common. The desert southwest has long dealt with water management, but recently, cities like Atlanta, GA, e
