Rain barrels.
I got these rain barrels from a local business called Envirosponsible. They used to hold stuffed olives, but now that they’ve been cleaned and a tap installed on the side, they will hold rain water that runs off from our roof. Canadian Tire sells something similar, for a whopping $99.99, and the only customer review posted to their site so far indicates that it leaked right away. These barrels are better because they’re being recycled, and only cost $40 for the first one, and $35 for each subsequent barrel. We’re keeping these barrels from being thrown into landfill!
Granted these aren’t the most beautiful addition to the yard, but I’m considering adding some mesh or wire to the outside and growing a vine to cover the sides.
Right now there are four of these barrels in the yard, but only two of them are staying. One will be installed at the front of the house and one at the back. While I don’t expect to be able to avoid using the hose entirely this summer, I hope to at least make a significant reduction in our water consumption. The other two barrels are for the community garden, where we’ll be collecting water from the shed’s roof.
Yesterday as Graham and I were standing outside, discussing how we’ll install the barrel. I turned to him and said, “I’m really glad we’re doing a few things like this to be more eco-friendly.” He agreed.
And I am proud of you! In our NEXT house, I’m going to do that, too!!! Unfortunately, all the downspouts go right into underground “tunnels.” Don’t think hubby would want to undo them…