April 22, 2021: Following a very hot and dry summer last year, the Regional Water Authority (RWA) is offering rain barrels at a nearly 50 percent discount to help customers use water wisely. The online sale begins today, as a way to honor Earth Day.

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

Approximately 40 percent 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 capture this water for household use. Barrels are easily connected to downspouts. 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 Rain Water Solutions, Inc. at a special discounted rate of $68 each. These rain barrels typically retail for $129 each. Online orders must be placed by Sunday, June 6. Supplies are limited.

More information on rain barrels and tips for being water wise can be found on the RWA's website. Rain barrels can be ordered online at rainwatersolutions.com/rwater.

The barrels, which fit in the back of most cars, will be available for pickup on Saturday, June 12 from 9 a.m. through noon, at the RWA's headquarters located at 90 Sargent Drive in New Haven, exit 46 off I-95.