News

NEW HAVEN, May 30, 2017 – The South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority (RWA) is offering rain barrels for sale to area residents as part of the company’s conservation and sustainability program.

Rain barrels are an efficient and effective way to store rain water for later use by collecting runoff from a roof or downspout. The barrels provide a free, ready source of water for filling watering cans, feeding a drip irrigation system and other outdoor chores such as gardening, cleaning muddy tools or washing your car.

“Rain barrels are a great way for homeowners to use water wisely and manage water costs,” said Ted Norris, RWA Vice President of Asset Management. “Rain barrels can also provide other environmental benefits by helping reduce storm water pollution by keeping more water on site and out of storm drains that can carry potential contaminants from the street.”

Approximately 40% of water used by the average homeowner in warm weather months is used outdoors. A one-inch rainfall on a 1,200-square-foot roof can yield over 700 gallons of water. Using a rain barrel is an excellent way to save some of this water. Barrels are easily connected to downspouts and fill quickly.
The 50-gallon rain barrels are made in the USA from recycled materials. The opening is covered with a screen to keep debris, mosquitoes and other insects out. The barrels also have a spigot to connect a hose for watering and an overflow hose.

RWA customers can order 50-gallon Ivy Rain Barrels® available through our rain barrel partner, Rain Water Solutions, Inc. at a special discounted rate of $68 each, below the $129 retail price. Orders must be placed by Friday, July 7. For more information or to order a rain barrel, go online at www.rainbarrelprogram.org/rwater. The barrels, which will fit in the back of most cars, will be available for pickup on Saturday, July 15, 9 a.m. until noon, at the RWA’s headquarters located at 90 Sargent Drive in New Haven, exit 46 off I-95.

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About the Regional Water Authority

The South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority (RWA) delivers water for life by providing high-quality water and services to almost 430,000 people in 15 cities and towns throughout Greater New Haven. Across its operations, the RWA acts as a responsible steward of the environment by protecting the more than 27,000 acres of watershed land it owns and promoting sustainable and conscious business practices. Our more than 260 employees work toward our vision of being an innovative water utility that sustains life, strengthens communities and protects natural resources for future generations. For more information on the RWA, please visit www.rwater.com.