RESIDENTS OF MARLBOROUGH RECEIVE RAIN BARREL GRANT FROM THE MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
The Marlborough Department of Public Works is pleased to announce that Marlborough has received a grant from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection to provide a limited number of New England Rain Barrels to Marlborough residents at the discounted price of $56.50, almost 40% off the retail price of $89. The Marlborough Water Department has teamed up with The New England Rain Barrel Company and DEP to offer these rain barrels to help residents conserve water, save money and reduce storm water run-off.
Rain barrel water can be used to water the garden throughout the growing season. The average homeowner uses approximately 40% of water for outdoor use. A one inch rainfall on a 1,200 square foot roof will yield over 700 gallons of water. Using a rain barrel is an excellent way to conserve some of this water. A quarter inch run-off from an average roof will easily fill the barrel. If you have 5 storms a season, that equals 275 gallons of free water. Rain barrel use reduces the stress on municipal water systems during the summer months and improves storm water management.
The rain barrels are made from 55 gallon blue plastic recycled containers. The top does not come off, so no children or pets can get in the barrel. It has a six inch diameter inlet opening covered with a screened louver to keep insects and debris out. The barrels have 2 brass spigots; one to allow you to connect a hose for watering, and one for overflow. You can connect a hose to the overflow spigot and redirect the water away from your home. It even comes with a 5 foot hose with a shutoff valve. You can join multiple barrels for additional capacity.
Orders may be placed and paid in advance by calling toll free (877)977-3135 or on line at www.nerainbarrel.com before May 15, 2008. The barrels can be picked up at the Department of Public Works at 135 Neil Street in Marlborough on May 20, 2008 between the hours of 3p.m. and 6p.m Limited quantities of barrels are available at this discounted price. For further information, please call
(877)977-3135..
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