Rain Barrels

Did you know that one inch of rain on a 1000 sq. ft. roof can produce approximately 625 gallons of rain water? That is amazing to me. Think of all that rain water you could be collecting and using for on your landscaping or gardens. Not only is this water FREE, it is also better for your plants than tap water.
I have had a rain barrel for about 5 years now and I love it. It is great to used in times of drought and when we have water restrictions.

To some home owners rain barrels are an eye sore, but they don't have to be. Rain barrels can be painted to match your home so they blend in, or you can but it in a less noticable place and hide it with plants. You could evn pain it with with some sort of design. Do what ever works for you.

If you live in Hillsborough County you can get a rain barrel for free by attending one of their work shops. Just call the Hillsbrough County Extension Office and sign up (813)744-5519. IF you don't feel like attending a workshop or if you live in a different county here is a link with directions on how to make one.http://hillsborough_fyn.ifas.ufl.edu/RainBarrels.html

If you google "How to make a Rain Barrel" there will have plenty of links for videos and step by step directions.
Good Luck!