Rain barrel sale extended by Land Conservancy

Water conservation is a growing concern for municipalities and residents alike, and residential irrigation can account for 40 percent of domestic water consumption in a given municipality.

In McHenry County, all of the water for the public comes from wells that tap into groundwater aquifers. All the water in those aquifers comes from rainwater that infiltrates through the soil. If people keep treating our rainwater as "run-off," moving it into a storm-water management system, the aquifers will eventually run dry.

One inch of rain on a 1,000-square-foot roof yields more than 600 gallons of water. Rain water diversion will help decrease the burden on water treatment facilities and municipal drainage systems during storms, and helps decrease demand during the sweltering summer months.

The opportunity exists to meet current and future water needs in McHenry County with the water resources that are available -- if we plan for it.

For a limited time, The Land Conservancy of McHenry County is offering 60-gallon rain barrels at a wholesale price. Residents can place their orders through a link to the Web site.

The deadline for ordering has been extended until April 23. Pickup will be May 9 and 10 at the Woodstock office at 4506 Dean St.

Cost of a rain barrel is $79. The rain barrels have a screw-on perforated top with inside screen mesh to keep out debris, bugs, pets and children; two top-overflow male hose connections; a brass spigot; and a bottom drain plug. The overflow fittings allow excess water to be diverted into a second or third barrel; or, by attaching a hose, excess water can be diverted to any remote area such as a garden.

To order or for more information visit Web site www.conserveMC.org