Simple Actions that Matter

Simple Action of the Month: Using Rain Barrels

For many homeowners a green lawn is a pleasant place to relax, but getting that lush green lawn requires a lot of water –which is a growing concern as water supply decreases and demand for water increases. According to Environment Canada a single lawn sprinkler spraying 19 liters per minute uses more water in just one hour than a combination of ten toilet flushes, two dishwasher loads and even a full load of clothes!

How can you make your water usage more environmentally friendly and save money? The simple answer is: rain barrels. Not only are they a cheap and easy way to conserve water but the water supply from these barrels is non-chlorinated, oxygenated, and is always free. Getting the water is as simple as placing the barrels outside and diverting your rain gutters to fill them, no muss no fuss! Most barrels come with connectors for hoses.

Other watering tips to help conserve water include:

• Water your lawn in the morning instead of the evening. Less water is lost due to evaporation. Homeowners should aim to water on calm days to avoid wind drift.
• Rain water is free and easy way to water your lawn! A healthy lawn needs only 2.5cm, which adds up to about an inch of water a week, including rainfall. Before you water your lawn or garden don’t forget to take into consideration that your lawn has been watered the previous week. Leave a measuring container in the yard, to help you monitor the amount of rainfall and avoid wasting more water.
• Your driveway is made from concrete and therefore does not require any watering at all! Make sure to set up your sprinkler or hose in a manner to avoid watering hard surfaces.