Have you ever watched a river of rainwater run down your driveway into the lake or storm sewer - or seep into your basement? Collecting roof runoff in rain barrels helps prevent these problems. Rain barrels also alleviate stressed water systems and conserve limited resources. They help protect our lakes and rivers while we save money on water bills.

A rain barrel is a rainwater harvesting system that is connected to a downspout from any building. Downspouts that empty directly onto hard surfaces, or poorly drained vegetative areas, are good locations for barrels. Rain barrels collect water and store it for later use.

There are many configurations for rainwater collecting systems. They cost $70 to $300. Review and compare options commercially available to find out what's in your price range that would help your yard. Also, search the Internet for information on how to construct and install rain barrels. Sixty gallon, plastic barrels might be obtained at little or no cost from firms that deal with bulk food like pickles, fruit cocktail, or soft drinks.

The most common use for rainwater from rain barrels is watering gardens. Did you know that rainwater can help improve the health of your gardens, lawn and trees? Rainwater is "soft" and devoid of minerals, chlorine and other chemicals found in city water. For this reason, plants respond very well to rainwater.

Look around your neighborhood. How many rain barrels do you see? By placing rain barrels around your house, you will teach and encourage others to do the same. On a larger scale, you will be helping to spread the culture of rainwater collection and be helping the environment.

Runoff carries nutrients and other contaminants into lakes and rivers. Some storm sewers lead right into surface waters without removing pollutants first. Using rain barrels will help reduce the problem by keeping storm water on your property.

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