Girl Scouts & Rain Barrels

First off rain barrels are genius. They may not be the most attractive things to look at but what are the benefits of the rain barrel?

* Reduces the volume of water flowing to the sewer treatment facility
* Lowers the percentage of roof top rainfall as a component of urban runoff
* Backup source of water during times of drought or between rain showers
* Helps to keep our creeks and beaches clean
* Naturally softened water - great for delicate houseplants, auto cleaning and window washing
* Saves money by lowering your water bill
* Reduces the need for additional tax dollars earmarked for sewer expansion
* Chlorine-free water helps maintain a healthy biotic community in the soil
* Educational tool for teaching residents about water conservation

Now that you are aware of the awesomeness of rain barrels, if you live in the Kansas City area, how about purchasing one from the Girl Scouts.

Yesterday, I went to the Overland Park farmers market, and Troop 930 are selling the rain barrels for $55.00. Added benefit....not only are you and the environment benefiting from the purchase of the rain barrel, but you are supporting a Girl Scout troop. It has become such a success that this troop had an article in the Kansas City Star:

http://www.kansascity.com/2010/05/15/1939592/green-home-girl-scout-project.html

Please purchase one of these barrels. Or make your own. Contact the troop at Mary Thompson, troop adviser, at jmthompson@everestkc.net