Water-Related News

Sign up now for Sept. 21st Rainwater Harvesting Workshop

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Have you ever thought “What a waste!” when you see rainwater pouring out of your gutter down spout and then down the street? By attending this workshop hosted by the University of Florida/IFAS Extension, you will learn how to save that water in a recycled plastic drum for use in your landscape. The collected water may be used for your plant beds, potted plants, and special plant collections.

The workshop is free; each attendee will receive instructions on how to build and install a rain barrel, and a reference booklet. For a fee of $25 ($20 for Florida Botanical Garden members) attendees will also receive one 55-gallon drum and a 3/4" spigot.

Rain Barrels are available only at the class and pre-payment is required when registering. If rain barrel will be transported inside your car please bring something to cover your seats to protect from possible soil or moisture.

Drum Specifications: Plastic, recycled food-grade drums. Please note: color of drum may vary. Approximate Drum Dimensions: 3' tall, 22" diameter. Capacity: approximately 55 gallons. These drums have two 3" diameter threaded holes with caps in a NON-REMOVABLE top. Please see photo at left of examples of how these drums may be cut for a larger hole in the top. Cutting of the top typically requires a power saw. As part of the installation we recommend the user attach screen to the top of the barrel to exclude mosquitoes and to filter roof debris.

Questions about this class? Please call (727) 453-6524.