“Build Your Own Rain Barrel Workshop” hosted by the Lexington Countywide Stormwater Consortium
October 15, 2015
LEXINGTON, SC – The Lexington Countywide Stormwater Consortium will host a “Build Your Own Rain Barrel” Workshop on Friday, October 30, 2015 from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Public Works Building located at 440 Ball Park Road, Lexington. Representatives from Lexington County Public Works Stormwater Division will present information about stormwater runoff and rainwater harvesting before helping attendees build their own rain barrel to take home with them.
Workshop attendees will learn how to reduce the amount of stormwater runoff from their property through rainwater harvesting. Rainwater harvesting is simply the capture of rainwater on your property for reuse. Rain barrels typically collect runoff from a roof; this water can then be used to water a garden, wash a car, or a variety of other outdoor uses.
Stormwater runoff occurs when impervious surfaces such as buildings and pavement prevent the natural infiltration of rain water into the soil. When stormwater washes into storm drains, it flows directly into lakes, rivers, and streams; it is not treated at a wastewater treatment plant. The increase in volume of water to local streams and creeks not only causes issues such as erosion, siltation, and flooding, but stormwater picks up pollutants such as motor oils, pesticides, fertilizers, litter, and bacteria. This pollution is deposited into local waterways that also serve as drinking water and recreational resources. Therefore, reducing stormwater runoff helps to save water, save money, and reduces stormwater pollution.
The cost to attend the workshop and make your own rain barrel to take home is $25. To register for the workshop, contact Tina Blum, Lexington Soil and Water Conservation District, at (803) 359-3165 or [email protected]
