Charles County, MD
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SHOULD I BUILD A RAIN BARREL?
Did you know that the average roof collects 600 gallons of rainwater for every inch of rain?
Rainwater from downspouts often drains onto driveways, sidewalks, or other paved surfaces and is not able to soak into the ground. Water rushing over these hard surfaces picks up pollutants along the way which then enters our streams. This water run-off can cause flash flooding and erosion, lower water quality, and harm fish habitats.
According to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, rain barrels can save a homeowner 1,300 gallons of water use during peak summer months. Rainwater is naturally soft, oxygenated, and devoid of chlorine, so it can help improve the health of your gardens, lawns and trees.
Capturing some of that rainwater not only plays an important role in protecting our freshwater resources but also saves business owners, schools, and homeowners money by reducing tap water use. In Charles County, harvesting your rain with a rain barrel can also qualify you for a Watershed Protection and Restoration Fee credit on your property tax bill.
Register for a Rain Barrel Workshop to learn how easy it is to get started and take advantage of these great benefits or click here to learn more.
