Spring Showers Bring Limited Time Offer on Rain Barrels

The Cambridge DPW is partnering with the Great American Rain Barrel Company in Hyde Park, MA to offer recycled rain barrels to residents as part of a community wide conservation and sustainability program.

“We are bringing Rain Barrels to Cambridge to help homeowners bring down their water costs and help our community protect their aquifers,” says Catherine Woodbury from the Cambridge DPW. “With uncertain weather patterns customers are realizing that they need to save every drop of rain. Rain barrels are also an effective way to reduce runoff from their properties and help homeowners manage their own water usage; we hope to see one at every downspout in Cambridge.”

Capture the rainwater from your roof and store it in a rain barrel for later use in your garden. Purchase a 60-gallon rainwater collection system for $79.00. This offer is valid until May 12th. To provide the lowest cost, the company is arranging for a general delivery of the rain barrels on Thursday, May 19th , from 4-7 p.m., at Cambridge DPW yard, 147 Hampshire Street.

If rainwater is not captured and allowed to soak back into the ground, rivers and streams do not have the chance to sustain or "recharge" themselves. By capturing rainwater, you are reducing stormwater runoff, conserving water and recharging the groundwater.

A local non-profit agency, Green Cambridge (www.greencambridge.org ), is offering to install rain barrels for Cambridge residents free of charge. If you prefer to install them yourself, the rain barrel arrives with simple instructions for fast and easy installation. For more information, to order online and to check out the design and variety of color options log onto The Great American Rain Barrel Company website: www.greatamericanrainbarrel.com  click on “Shop Local Programs” and select “Cambridge”. You can also order by phone (800) 251-2352 toll free when specifying the City of Cambridge promotion.