To purchase a barrel, contact the Lake County Soil and Water Conservation District.
The rain barrel program is co-sponsored by SWCD, SMC and the Lake County Forest Preserve District, and the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County.
About the Barrel
$79 each. The 55-gallon barrels are available in blue, terra cotta, black and grey and made from upcycled plastic. Rain barrels can be left outside year-round, but before winter arrives, drain and open up the spigot and bottom drain.
A larger selection of accessories are also be available for purchase.
The Benefits of a Rain Barrel
A rain barrel connected to your downspout is a great way to keep stormwater out of the system and to cut down your water bill! Because you are collecting right off the roof, it has few contaminants and is perfect for watering the garden.
Diverting water from your downspout into rainwater catchment systems has several advantages:
- Helps recharge the water supply.
- Reduces the volume of water flowing to the sewer treatment facilities.
- Backup source of water during times of drought or between rain showers.
- Helps keep our creeks, lakes and beaches clean.
- Naturally softened water - great for delicate houseplants, auto cleaning and window washing.
- Education tool for teaching residents about water conservation.
Decorate Your Rain Barrel
Painting your barrel is a great project for your family or community group and will make your rain barrel a piece of personalized art! It won't last forever, but follow these steps for best results:
- If you just want to paint your rain barrel a solid color, use Krylon's Fusion spray paints, which are designed for plastic and do not require a primer.
- If you want to paint pictures on your barrel, first prime it with Zinser 1-2-3 (blue can) and follow with a coat of interior/exterior grade acrylic paint for a base coat.
- Use acrylic paints to add your own design.
