Each Sunday we will feature a project going on within the city, happenings within a department or someone who works hard to provide services to the community. This week we take a look at the city's rain barrel program.
As the saying goes, April showers bring May flowers; but did you know that rain showers can be harvested to water those flowers throughout the year?
Or to water your lawn, wash your car or rinse off your muddy boots?
Collecting rain in a rain barrel can save residents some 1,300 gallons of water during the peak water months. That, in turn, helps save residents money and helps the environment. One inch of rain falling on 1,000 square feet of roof can yield 600 gallons of free water for a variety of uses.
The City of Portage, through its MS4 Stormwater Program through the city's Utility-Field Forces Department, will begin its annual sale of 55-gallon rain barrels to residents tomorrow, Monday, April 19.
Residents may purchase one rain barrel per household for $25 each. Additional rain barrels will cost $54. Only 135 rain barrels are available at the discounted rate.
Collecting and reusing rainwater helps reduce stormwater pollution, conserves water supply resources and is better for plants and flowers.
Please see the attached flyer and form for more information on the advantages of using rain barrels and how to order rain barrels which will be available for pick up on May 19. Also attached are an order form and instructions on how to properly install a rain barrel system.
Questions on the program can be directed to the City of Portage Utility Service MS4 Program at 219-763-2986 or by email to ccastle@portage-in.com
