October 6, 2003

BUY A RAIN BARREL AND STOCK UP FOR THE DRY SEASON

Charlotte, NC - The Mecklenburg Soil and Water Conservation District and Charlotte Storm Water Services are offering a variety of rain barrels for sale at a reduced price. While the water table is healthy, saving rainwater is a natural way to water lawns and plants, while conserving our resources and reducing storm water runoff.

Three sizes of rain barrels are offered:

· 55-gallon for $60
· 60-gallon for $80
· 80-gallon for $95

To pre-order a rain barrel, call 704-336-RAIN or email savetherain@yahoo.com. The last day to order is October 10, 2003.  Pick-up is Saturday, October 18, from 9 a.m.- Noon at the Hal Marshall County Services Center, 700 North Tryon Street in Charlotte. For more information, or to see pictures of the barrels, visit www.mecklenburgconservation.com. A small portion of the proceeds funds water conservation educational programs.

One inch of rain on a thousand square foot roof area equals about 625 gallons of water.  Did you know…

· A rain barrel will fill up with as little as 1/10th of an inch of rain.
· Plants thrive on natural rainwater - no chlorine, ammonia, fluoride, or other chemicals added to municipal water systems.
· Collecting and using rainwater conserves a vital natural resource.

The Mecklenburg Soil and Water Conservation District is a local organization working with residents, agencies, and business owners to plan and direct programs for the conservation and development of natural resources. For more information on the Mecklenburg Soil and Water Conservation District, check the Web site www.mecklenburgconservation.com or call 704-336-2455.