Rain barrels

[from Annette O.]

I wanted to share a picture of the rain barrel that DC's RiverSmart Homes program just installed for me on Wednesday. Apparently my house is one of the first 5 or so in NW to get the rain barrel (rumor is only the second, woo-hoo!). 

Rain barrels normally cost $200-400, not including installation; DC provided the barrel and installed it for only $30. DC Greenworks, who did the actual installation, is working through the waiting list now, but they expect to order more barrels and continue on. The next thing I'm waiting for is the RiverSmart program's landscaping and drainage advisor to come do a site visit. With that advice in hand, I’ll be able to take advantage of the further assistance (up to $1200) they provide, such as help installing a shade tree, native plants, a rain garden, and/or pervious pavers. More info can be found here.

If you want to see the rain barrel before signing up, just email me.

Comments

[Gravity Gardener]

I made a rain bucket out of a 10.00 Trashcan. So far so good.
I have step by step pictures if interested.

http://gravitygarden.com/rainbucket/?page_id=46

[Bill C.]

I saw a bunch of nice looking rain barrels for sale in front of the P Street Whole Foods yesterday. Didn't see the price though...

[Wayan]

I am so jealous - I am on the waiting list (they say fall) and even asked to go in with Greenbelt on their purchase of the Canadian rain barrels in the photo.

[anxiousmodernman]

Thank you very much for your constructive blog posts. This stormwater control thing is a great program from DC! Unfortunately, I'm a renter, so I would have to make the case to my current property owners, but the public incentive really helps.

Renters, would you feel uncomfortable asking your landlords to take advantage of this program?