A rain barrel can reduce non-point source pollution.   Non-point source pollution is pollution that can not be traced to a single source.

Stormwater can contribute to non-point source pollution.  As rain water rushes off of roof tops, driveways, roads and parking lots, it picks up contaminates such as pesticides, spilled petroleum products and other pollutants.  Stormwater carries these problems directly to our waterways.  Even exposed soil can be picked up by stormwater and can cause pollution in our streams and rivers. 

The use of a rain barrel can reduce stormwater run off in your backyard.  The barrel collects rainwater as it runs off your rooftop, thereby reducing the amount of stormwater rushing from your property to your local watershed.

View the VCD Rain Barrel Workshop Powerpoint

Rain Barrel Workshop Powerpoint pdf version

View slide show of Rain Barrel components

 

Install a Rain Barrel.

Choose a location for your rain barrel.  Which of your downspouts does most of the stormwater exit from?  From which downspout does the water drain directly to an impervious surface like a sidewalk or driveway.  These examples would make a good choice for a rain barrel location.

Install your new barrel on a sturdy raised surface.  Cement blocks make a great base for your barrel.

Connect the downspout to the barrel.  Trim your chosen downspout a few inches above the installed rain barrel.  An elbow may be needed to aim the water into the barrel opening.

Plant a rain garden for overflow.  Install a garden at the base of the overflow to hold excess water and allow it to seep slowly in the ground.  Rain garden plans can be obtained from the Venango Conservation District.

Maintenance.  Drain the barrel after rain storms.  Occasionally check it over to make sure the connections are clear and secure.

Enjoy!

 

Other ways you can prevent non-point source pollution in your backyard.

Cover bare soil. Plant a ground cover over exposed earth.  Or plant native grass seed and mulch.

Install permeable walkways. A woodchip walkway or gravel walkway is easy to install and allows water to seep into the ground.  Or create walkways of stone or brick surrounded by sand or gravel to accomplish water filtration.

Employ Terrace Landscaping.  Terracing slows stormwater. Cut terraces into any steeply sloped areas and plant vegetation to further filter run off.

Plant a rain garden for overflow.  Plant rain gardens in the path of stormwater run off.  They are attractive and hold water for filtration into the ground.

Plant a vegetable garden cover crop.   Exposed soil from harvested vegetable gardens is easily washed away.  Plant a cover crop like grass, clover or grains after your garden harvest to hold raw soil in place.