For sale: Rain barrel quenches thirst of plants with free water
Ahead of the relatively dry and warm summer months, the City of Vancouver is encouraging residents to purchase a rain barrel for their gardening needs.
The rain barrel system designed by Toronto-based Enviro World collects and stores rainwater that runs off the roof of a home. The water collected in the 208 litre rain barrel can be used to wash cars or water lawns and gardens.
Water that comes from faucets is treated to a level that permits drinking, but natural rain water has the pH level ideal for water and plant growth.
During the summer months in the city when some water restrictions are in place for lawn and garden watering, rain water harvesting will help conserve water supplies and divert rain away from storm drains.
Other design features of the Enviro World rain barrel include an insect resistant stainless steel screen, a higher spigot to accommodate most watering can, and a childproof lid. The square-shaped barrel measures 34″ in height, 24″ in width and 24″ in diameter.
The rain barrels are being sold for $50 (retail value $90) and can be pre-ordered online or purchased at the following drop-in locations on certain dates:
- Saturday, May 23 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Parking lot at 2670 Victoria Drive near Trout Lake Farmers Market in Vancouver
- Sunday, May 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 pm.: Loutet Farm, near Rufus Avenue and East 14th Street in North Vancouver
- Saturday, June 13 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.: VanDusen Gardens parking lot at 5251 Oak Street in Vancouver
- Sunday, June 14 from 10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.: Loutet Farm, near Rufus Avenue and East 14th Street in North Vancouver
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