Rain barrels capture water from a roof and hold it for later use such as on lawns, gardens or indoor plants. Collecting roof runoff in rain barrels reduces the amount of water that flows from your property. It’s a great way to conserve water and it’s free water for use in your landscape. 

Portsmouth Master Gardeners periodically sponsor rain barrel classes, where our Water Stewards discuss the importance of water conservation and help students build a rain barrel to use at their homes.

Rain barrel facts:

• Just 1/2″ of rain falling on a 1,000 square foot roof will yield 300 gallons of water.
• One rain barrel can save approximately 1300 gallons for reuse during peak summer months.
• Reduces water pollution by reducing storm water runoff.
• Water barrels reduce your daily water use and save you MONEY!