Rain Barrels

Using rainwater instead of the municipal water supply to water plants is an effective method of reducing summer water use. Rain barrels are used to collect and store rainwater from a building’s roof for later use. The stored rainwater can be used to water flower gardens and trees during dry periods.

Rain barrels typically hold 55 gallons of water and can be linked together for additional storage. A 1,200 square foot roof can generate around 720 gallons of water during a 1” rainfall and 17,000 gallons over one growing season. To capture as much of this runoff as possible, also consider installing a larger cistern with a pump for watering your lawn.

Purchasing Options

• The Recycling Association of Minnesota (RAM) holds distribution events throughout Ramsey County in the spring. Visit the RAM website for more information.  

Rain Barrel Cost Share Grants

If you live within the Rice Creek Watershed District or Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization, grants are available to help cover the cost of a rain barrel.