Medford Bringing Back Discounted Rain Barrel Program

MEDFORD, MA — The city will once again offer rain barrels at a discounted price this year. In partnership with The Great American Rain Barrel Co., Medford is working to safely provide residents with the opportunity and help the city manage its water supplies.

The barrels are made from 100 percent repurposed, food-grade shipping drums made in Massachusetts. They can last for years with proper maintenance and winterization. Barrels come with a removable mesh screen for keeping pests out that can be easily cleaned.

Setup can be done within five minutes. Barrels come in several colors: Earth Brown, Forest green, and Nantucket Gray. Also available in unpainted.

Why Use Rain Barrels?

Rainwater barrels are a sure-fire way to collect water free of added chemicals without hassle. These 60-gallon barrels, offered at the discounted price of $69, can pay for themselves in one season; rain barrel owners save an estimated $200 in annual water bills. Use these barrels to repurpose rainwater to water stressed trees and gardens during dry spells. Additionally, collected rainwater has the added benefit of limiting stormwater runoff, which takes pressure off of community storm drains and prevents untreated pollutants from directly entering our waterways. Rain barrels are an easy and fun way for families to tap into environmental practice. Children can learn how to harvest rain and runoff from their home’s downspouts and use the water for plant projects. Rain barrels are also great to use as an outdoor water source to top off your pool or wash your car.

How to Order

To find out more about the barrels and participate in The Great American Rain Barrel Program, please visit www.greatamericanrainbarrel.com/community/ and select ‘Medford.’ Barrels are offered for $69, and will be available for pick up on Wednesday April 28th, 5:00-7:00pm at Medford High School, 489 Winthrop St. Deadline for purchase is midnight on Wednesday, April 21.