Rain Barrel Workshop – July 25, 2013

Rain Barrel Workshop – July 25, 2013 In early May, the Franklin Township Environmental Commission (FTEC) and the New Jersey Water Supply Authority (NJWSA) held a successful rain barrel workshop at the municipal building. Nearly 40 residents attended the workshop and built 25 barrels. FTEC and NJWSA have scheduled another workshop on July 25, 6-8 pm, for residents who were not able to participate in the May workshop. Rain barrels collect and store rainwater collected from a roof. The water can be used to water lawns and gardens or be used for other non-potable (non-drinkable) uses. By using a rain barrel, residents can reduce their potable water usage and save money on water bills and reduce stress on wells. By collecting the rainwater, the volume of water reaching local waterbodies is reduced, which can help improve stream health. Staff from NJWSA will discuss how the benefits of rain barrels and how residents can contribute to improving water resources. They will then show participants how to build, install, and maintain their own rain barrel, which will collect water from residential roofs during rain storms. “In addition to conserving water, rain barrels help the environment by reducing the amount of runoff going to our storm sewers and rivers during rain storms, easing stream erosion. Installing a rain barrel is one of the best ways homeowners can help to manage the effects of urban stormwater” said NJWSA staff member Kathy Hale. The workshop is open to all Franklin Township residents. Those living along DeMott Lane from Easton Avenue to the southern end of Emerson Road and the neighborhood along Rue Chagall are especially encouraged to attend, as their neighborhood drains to the Delaware & Raritan Canal, a drinking water supply resource managed by NJWSA. The workshop is free to attend, but if you would like to build and take home a rain barrel, the cost is $40. To register and reserve a rain barrel, please call 908-685-0315 233 or e-mail [email protected]. Space is limited! For additional information, visit www.raritanbasin.org.