Rain Barrel Program to Help Save Money, The Planet

CHELMSFORD, MA - Chelmsford is going to get a little bit greener with the town's new rain barrel program.

The Chelmsford Department of Public Works is partnering with the Great American Rain Barrel Company to make the barrels available to Chelmsford residents.

Rain barrels connect easily to downspouts and collect and store significant amounts of water.

“We are bringing Rain Barrels to Chelmsford to help homeowners reduce their water costs and help our community protect their water resources,” Christina Papadopoulos, Town Engineer of the Town of Chelmsford said in a news release. “Rain barrels are an effective way to eliminate waste from our water supplies, help homeowners supplement their own usage and we hope to see one at every downspout in Chelmsford”

New England residents have seen "exponential" water and sewer rate increases. Rain barrels can help offset some of these costs and help the community manage water supplies.

In addition to the personal benefits, rain barrels can help save the planet. The barrels reduce runoff from homes and developments that can be harmful to existing water sources.

Chelmsford is offering the Great American Rain Barrel in three colors: Forest Green, Earth Brown or Nantucket Gray. The barrels cost $79, 34 percent off the retail price of $119.

Orders can be placed online or by phone and will be available for pick up Tuesday, May 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Chelmsford DPW at 9 Alpha Road.

To take advantage of this offer please visit www.greatamericanrainbarrel.com, click on “Community Programs” and click on Chelmsford. Rain barrels will be on display at the Town Offices, 50 Billerica Rd., Adams Library, 25 Boston Rd., and The Department of Public Works. If you have any questions, contact info@tgarb.com or phone (800)-251-2352.

Orders must be placed before April 25, 2016, at 5:00pm.