Today's challenge is:
Collect Rainwater
Why,
Lawn and garden watering make up nearly 40% of total household water use during the summer. Using a rain barrel can help save approximately 1,300 gallons just during the summer. That can save you a lot of money in your water bill!
It also eases the strain on water management facilities, because the water isn't entering the sewer system. Rain barrels help to reduce runoff pollution. When it rains, runoff picks up soil, fertilizer, oil, pesticides and other contaminants and spreads them into the environment, These pollutants can increase algae growth in lakes, alter the habitat for fish, and even make bodies of water dangerous for recreational activities.
A rain barrel collects water and stores it for when you need it for watering plants, washing your car, washing windows, and many other outdoor water uses. It provides an ample supply of water that is free of chlorine, lime or calcium making it actually better for watering plants than tap water!
Rain barrels usually cost about $50-60, but they are well worth the Investment!
Be sure to check out:
US Environmental Protection Agency:
They have lots of great info, and instructions on how to build you own rain barrel!
http://www.epa.gov/reg3esd1/garden/rainbarrel.html#advantages
They talk about how to choose the size for your rain barrel.
http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/5-questions-how-to-size-your-rain-barrel-165549
~The Coyotes