Cooperative Extension is offering rain barrels again this spring. These barrels are manufactured locally from high density polyethylene with deep ribbed sides for strength.
The rain barrels fill from any size gutter downspout through an insect-proof mesh cover. The unit also comes with a solid brass spigot which connects easily to a garden hose or soaker hose. The barrel also features two overflow ports that easily connect to standard water hoses, diverting excess rainwater away from your home to nearby shrubbery areas.
The 80-gallon barrel offered is only 37 inches high and 28 inches wide with a deep concave top to channel water into the entry cover. The barrel has a thick, meshed screen to prevent entry of insects and debris. Cost for an 80-gallon rain barrel is $100. Deadline to order a rain barrel is Friday, May 25. Contact Cooperative Extension, 704-216-8970 or darrell_blackwelder@ncsu.edu to place an order. Rain barrel pick up is Thursday, May 31, at the Agricultural Center at 2727 Old Concord Road in Salisbury, between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.