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Conserve water - purchase a rain barrel

May 27, 2008

(Red Deer, Alberta) – Conserve water, help the environment and save money when you purchase a rain barrel at The City’s rain barrel sale on June 7.

“Rain barrels are used to collect rainwater for outdoor uses like watering gardens, plants or lawns and washing pets. Outdoor watering can account for up to 30 per cent of a resident’s water bill, which means collecting rainwater has the potential to significantly reduce a household’s consumption of treated water,” said Andrea Pagee, City of Red Deer Water Conservation Specialist.

The sale runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., or until rain barrels are sold out, at The City’s Snow Storage Facility on 40 Avenue, south of the landfill. Rain barrels will be sold for $70 each, on a first-come, first-served basis, limit of two per household; cash only, no cheques accepted.

The rain barrels are approximately two feet wide by three feet tall. Citizens who miss out on the sale or who prefer a different model can purchase rain barrels at local retail stores.

Pagee adds that whatever barrel you choose to purchase, ensure it is clean, mosquito tight and child proof.

“Rain barrels are an easy and affordable way to cut back on use of treated water during the summer. It helps reduce stress on our water systems during peak times, and is one small step citizens can take towards being more sustainable at home,” said Pagee.

A brochure outlining proper care and rain barrel maintenance will be distributed at the sale. Environmental Services will also be on site at the Red Deer Farmers Market on May 31 to answer questions and give more information about the benefits of rain barrels.

“It is The City’s first rain barrel sale, but we hope to make it an annual event,” added Pagee.

For more information about water conservation visit www.reddeer.ca or call
403-342-8750.
 
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For further information about the program, contact:

Andrea Pagee
Water Conservation Specialist
The City of Red Deer
403-342-8750

or

Pam Vust
Environmental Initiatives Coordinator
The City of Red Deer
403-342-8750