By SDCN Staff
San Diego, CA–San Diego County will be experiencing substantial rainfall this fall and winter, but that may not be enough to combat California’s drought.
Encinitas-based Solana Center for Environmental Innovation offers a unique opportunity of capturing rainwater through its rain barrel program, aimed to reduce runoff to creeks and the ocean and save San Diego residents money on their water bills. Rain barrels are an excellent tool in helping conserve water for the state’s drought crisis.
Reducing runoff from driveways, streets, and sidewalks keeps harmful pollutants from reaching beaches and waterways. Instead, residents can redirect fresh rainwater to plants that need it most. Just 1 inch of rain yields 600 gallons per 1000 sq. ft. of roof space, depending on roof configuration, Solana Center for Environmental Innovation stated in a news release.
That’s a lot of free, fresh water for San Diegans to divert and help their plants thrive. In addition to diverting rainwater, the rain barrels provided can store up to 50 gallons of rainwater for later use without encouraging mosquitoes. Just last year alone, Solana Center helped save more than 112,450 gallons of rainwater from becoming runoff through rain barrel sales.
“Rain barrels provide an easy way to conserve water for reuse on watering outdoor plants and landscapes,” said Solana Center for Environmental Innovation’s Program Manager Jackie Bookstein. “Knowing California is in a drought, this is a great opportunity to conserve and reuse all the water we can.”
With every drop of rain diverted from running down the street, the public can do their part in reducing water pollution. If not diverted, runoff water collects fertilizers and chemicals from gardens and yards and flows directly into creeks and oceans through storm drains.
Residents can save money by taking advantage of rainwater as a free resource. It also promotes plant and soil health by watering with chemical-free captured rainwater.
The Solana Center is one of the very few places that offer rain barrels in the region. The barrels are made in the USA using recycled plastic. They are also weather resistant and an algae deterrent, the Solana Center’s staff says.
San Diego County residents can apply for a $35 rebate for up to two barrels through SoCalWaterSmart.org. Unincorporated County residents can receive an additional $30 rebate through San Diego County, with additional savings per gallon. The City of San Diego offers additional rebates.
To purchase rain barrels and for additional information visit: solanacenter.org/rain-barrels.