Learn how to reduce storm water run-off on your property

Attendees will build their own rain barrels to take home at the April 27 workshop at the Bay Community House.

Build a rain barrel to take home at a rain barrel workshop on Wed., April 27

There is no doubt that storm water run-off is increasing as development expands and the pervious surfaces (like meadows and forests) that soak up the water naturally are disappearing. There are things that a homeowner can do to reduce the storm water run-off on his/her property and utilize the rain water in a beneficial manner, including installing a rain barrel.

According to Amy Roskilly of the Cuyahoga Soil and Water Conservation District, a rain barrel is a container used to collect and store rainwater that would otherwise be lost to run-off and likely diverted to a storm drain. Collected water may then be used to water lawns and gardens.  The benefits of rain barrels are multiple:

•  WATER CONSERVATION – Approximately 60% of our municipal water supply goes directly to watering our lawns.  By using rain barrels, you lessen the amount of water flowing into our storm drains, sewer systems, and ultimately local waterways. This water can then be used during hot or dry spells to water your garden. 
• PROTECTION OF LOCAL WATERSHEDS – 70 million pounds of pesticides are applied to lawns each year, contaminating storm water (rainwater) runoff. Fertilizers and pesticides are the primary source of water pollution.  By collecting rain water, you prevent that runoff from picking up and carrying these harmful pollutants into our local waterways. 
• NATURAL GARDENING – Using rainwater to water your garden is natural and healthy. Plants and beneficial microbes like rainwater because it is naturally soft – free of chlorine, fluoride, and other chemicals. 

About the Workshop:

Presented by: Amy Roskilly, Cuyahoga Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD)

Date & Time: Wednesday, April 27, from 7-8:30 p.m.

Location: Bay Village Community House, 303 Cahoon Rd.

Cost: Rain Barrels are $60. This includes the barrel and the diverter kit.

To register: Contact Amy Roskilly at 216-524-6580, ext. 22, or aroskilly@cuyahogaswcd.org. Registration is required.