At PREA Signature Realty, we believe strongly in supporting private-public partnerships that offer an opportunity for environmental and social change. Here is some information on the new MSD Rain Barrel Initiative:
A Brief Overview of the New Initiative...
The new initiative offers rain barrels for sale from MSD at a discounted price. By catching storm water runoff in these rain barrels, local residents can reduce their consumption of water, save money on water costs, and reduce contamination of water in local streams.
In St. Louis, we are extremely lucky to have a good, safe and plentiful supply of water. The new initiative from the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District ("MSD") seeks to further two goals - the conservation of water and the reduction of storm water runoff into our local streams and rivers. Storm water runoff mixes with surface contaminants such as street oil, pesticides, etc. and can cause water pollution.
Here are some facts relating to the use of rain barrels:
- 40% of Water Usage from an Average Homeowner is for Outdoor Use and Irrigation
- A Roof with a Surface Area of 1,200 Sq. Ft. Produces More than 700 Gallons of Storm water Runoff
- Assuming 10 Storms per Year, a Rain Barrel would Provide over 550 Gallons of Free Water for Outdoor Irrigation per Year
Pricing for the MSD Rain Barrel Initiative Works...
For a limited time from March 2, 2009, through April 3, 2009, MSD is selling rain barrels to its customers at a cost of $45.00 per rain barrel. The rain barrels are manufactured by Eagle Peak Containers and distributed by Hanneke Industrial Products to MSD for direct sale and shipment to MSD customers. The cost for purchasing the rain barrels directly from Eagle Peak is $62.50 plus $55.00 for a total price of $117.50. Purchase directly from MSD and save 62% off the manufacturer's price.
Eligibility and How to Place Your Rain Barrel Order...
To be eligible for this program, you must be a customer of MSD and must be current on your MSD sewer bill. To purchase a rain barrel from MSD, customers need to call the MSD Billing Department at 1-866-281-5737 between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Rain barrel sales take place from Monday, March 2 to Friday, April 3. However, don't wait because supplies are limited (approx. 300 rain barrels). Payment is required at time of purchase in the form of a debit card or credit card payment. No cash or mail in payments accepted. MSD customers can purchase a maximum of 4 barrels.
The Design of the Rain Barrels...
The 1115-WCC Rain Barrel are manufactured by Eagle Peak Containers from used food grade containers. Because it is made from a recycled product, the drums may have scratches, black marker writing or imperfections. The rain barrel includes a dropped in basket and downspout adapter.
The rain barrels hold or store 55 gallons of rainwater, more or less, have a top that doesn't come off, and has a narrow inlet opening covered with a screen to keep insects and debris out. The barrels also contain two spigots - one for connecting a hose and one for overflow. For more information, visit the Eagle Peak website. For more questions on the design, manufacture, installation or use of the rain barrels, contact Eagle Peak Containers at 1-877-868-1195 or send an e-mail to eaglepeak@cda.twcbc.com.
Delivery and Installation of Your Rain Barrel...
MSD does not deliver or install the rain barrels purchased by customers under the MSD Rain Barrel Initiative. The rain barrels will be shipped to St. Louis and distributed from a central location. Customers are responsible for the pick-up, delivery and installation of the rain barrels. Installation is relatively simple. Here are the installation instructions from Eagle Peak Containers.
How to Use the Rain Barrel...
Rain barrels collect and store rainwater from a home's roof. This water would normally flow off the roof, over a lawn and street and into a storm drain. In the process, the storm water often carries pollutants like sediment, oil, grease and pesticides. Rain barrels reduce runoff and the stored water can be used to water a lawn or a garden. These rain barrels are designed for watering lawns, gardens, flowers, shrubs and trees either by connecting a garden hose to the rain barrel or filling a watering can.
This public service announcement provided by PREA Signature Realty.
Interested in purchase a home in St. Louis, Missouri? Contract Ryan Shaughnessy at PREA Signature Realty at 314-971-4381 or by e-mail to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com. Or, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com.
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