What are some benefits of rain barrels?
Ensuring Human Health – The EPA reports that depleting groundwater aquifers, such as James City County’s, can put water supplies, human health, and the environment at serious risk. Lower water levels can lead to higher concentrations of natural contaminants, such as radon and arsenic. Using water more efficiently helps maintain supplies at safe levels, protecting human health and the environment. Reducing Municipal Water Demand – Using rainwater instead of potable water for landscaping needs frees up municipal water for necessities such as firefighting during the peak summer months, when reserves are low. Reducing our demand during peak months mitigates the need to add water infrastructure such as wells and storage tanks. • In order to save additional water, consider landscaping techniques from our Let’s Be Water Smart program (www.bewatersmart.org) including mulching and proper plant selection, low flow toilets (look for the EPA’s new WaterSense rating system), or a rain sensor for yo
