Conserving Precious Resources in Your Own Backyard

Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County will present a Build a Rain Barrel workshop at the EARTH Center, in Davidson's Mill Pond Park, 42 Riva Ave, South Brunswick, on July 14 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Participants will build their own rain barrel and learn how to install it at home. A rain barrel is placed under a gutter's downspout next to a house, to collect rain water from the roof. The barrel holds approximately 50 gallons of water which can be used to water gardens. Rain barrels sell for over $100 at specialty garden shops. Rain water harvesting can help save money on your water bill, prevent basement flooding, and reduce flooding in local rivers and streams.

Register in advance at 732-398-5262. The workshop fee is $45, which includes the barrel and all materials. Payment is required for registration prior to workshop. Class size is limited, so register early to insure a space.

Please note: Barrels can be placed lying down in the backseat of most vehicles to be transported home, but they are the size of a 55 gallon drum. Please make arrangements in advance to transport your barrel home.

The 2011 gardening workshop series at the EARTH Center is a great opportunity for those who cannot commit to the regular sessions of the Master Gardener program, to get the horticultural information they need from a local source.