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STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
Rain Barrel Program
What is a Rain Barrel?
A rain barrel is a practical and environmentally sound method for controlling stormwater,
which contributes significantly to
sewage overflows polluting our rivers and streams.
Why a Rain Barrel?
Rain barrels are custom designed to work day in and day out to keep rainwater out of storm drains and sewers. Connected to
your home's downspout, the rain barrel collects stormwater during each rainfall. During dry weather, a hose
connected to the barrel allows the water to seep out to water your garden and replenish the groundwater table.
How does it Work?
Rain Barrels are secure and safe. During a 2004 demonstration
project (See below.), barrel installed were made of UV-stabilized
Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) to prevent warping, fading or
cracks. These barrels use a unique two-stage filter system. The
first-stage filter is designed to retain leaves, twigs and roofing
materials. The 200-micron mesh second-stage filter makes the rain
barrel mosquito-safe (to prevent possible exposure to the West
Nile virus), and stops sediment and other fine particles.
The Rain Barrel Demonstration Project
In 2004 3RWW completed a rain barrel project with the Nine Mile
Run Watershed Association to install 500 rain barrels in the Nine
Mile Run watershed to demonstrate a practical, low- cost, lot-level
solution for controlling stormwater, which contributes significantly
to sewage overflows and pollution in our rivers and streams. This
project was designed to be a public education tool and a model
to expand the use of rain barrels throughout Allegheny County.
(Click here
for a final report on the project.)
The Nine Mile Run Watershed Association is further expanding
the demonstration project in 2007 by installing 4,000 additional
barrels in Nine Mile Run communities. The 133-gallon barrels are
locally produced and feature a removable lid, making it easy to
install, clean, and store. For more information about the demonstration
project, click here.
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