For all the gardeners out there, a rain barrel could be a good option to save some cents on your utility bill and conserve a little water.
Rain barrels collect stormwater from your gutters. Beyond conserving water and saving money, they can help reduce potential flooding around your home and water pollution by lowering the amount flowing into drains.
According to Oklahoma State University’s Extension Office, harvested rainwater can serve as a great irrigation source for woody or herbaceous plants and lawns. Barrels are typically placed under the downspout of the home’s gutter system. You read about making your own barrel here or take advantage of a city program to purchase a discounted barrel.
Cost can sometimes be a barrier to getting started, with barrels costing upward of $100. But, for the ninth year, the City of Tulsa has partnered with Upcycle to provide citizens discounted 55-gallon barrels for $64.50.
“Supporting this type of program aligns with the City’s broader stormwater quality goals and public education efforts for cleaner streams,” said city spokesperson Carson Colvin. “This support is based on the general value of rain barrels as a best practice, not solely on one or any specific vendor partnership.”
Barrels come in four different colors and must be ordered online by April 26 to secure the discount. You can also put in a mail order by April 24.
Bookmark your payment receipt. Then you can pick up your barrel at 4502 S. Galveston Ave. on the dates and times below. For more information, visit the city’s website.
- Noon to 5 p.m. Friday, May 1
- 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, May 2
- Noon to 5 p.m. Friday, May 8
- 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, May 9
The City of Tulsa does not receive any money from the rain barrel partnership with Upcycle, according to Colvin. Upcycle partners with 14 other cities across Oklahoma and sold 313 rain barrels last year.
While rainwater is safe for gardening, it should not be used as drinking water. The University of Oklahoma has more rainwater harvesting resources available here.
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