Reduce Stormwater Runoff

Keeping rain and sprinkler water on our yards—and out of storm drains—reduces pollution of our rivers, lakes and bays. Because water washes off our yards, it is important to reduce the amount of pollutants on our property. There are great benefits to having swales in your yard and using pervious surfaces for patios and walkways.

Let only rain down the drain! While stormwater often travels through pipes under our roads just like sewage, it is not treated at a waste treatment plant. Instead stormwater flows directly into ponds, lakes, rivers and bays.

Rain barrels are a good way to reduce stormwater runoff and to save water for a dry spell. If you have gutters on your house, you may be able to collect 55 gallons of water during a 1/2-inch rain by connecting a downspout to a rain barrel or cistern.

1. Drill 15/16" hole at the first even part of barrel, about 6" to 8" from bottom.
2. Screw 3/4" spigot into hole (should have a snug fit).
3. When spigot is about 3/4" of the way in, apply PVC cement to threads and finish tightening.
4. If using a downspout, use a sabre saw to cut a hole in lid to fit spout. After inserting down spout, caulk around the hole.
5. Other option: Take off the lid of drum or trash can and cover the opening with a fine fiberglass screen to reduce mosquito breeding. Place the container where water flows off your roof.
6. Elevate barrel on 2 to 3 cement blocks to allow easy access to the spigot.
7. (If you want more pressure, raise the barrel higher above the ground.)
8. You may want to add a second spigot at the top of the barrel so you can direct the overflow through a hose into a specific part of your yard.

   

• Barrels either have sealed lids or lids that can be removed. Barrels with sealed lids have two small round openings. They have flat bottoms and are more stable. Barrels with removable lids have larger openings making cleaning out debris easier.
• Drums made of white plastic seem to disintegrate more quickly in the sun.
• Food-grade drums are also available in 48 gallon and 42 gallon sizes.

Important: For safety reasons, any rain barrel cover should have childproof design.

Barrels come in many sizes, shapes and colors.

Resources for reducing stormwater runoff:

• Carolina Yard Actions Checklist

Additional Resources:

• Creating an Environmentally Responsible Landscape
• Conserving Water in Your Landscape
• Xeriscape
• Balancing Nature Within Your Landscape