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September 21, 2005

DPW To Offer Rain Barrels At Discount

Mayor Says Homeowners Can Help the Environment While Saving Money on Water Bills

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone announced that the city is participating in a state-sponsored plan for conserving outdoor water use by offering a discounted rate on rain barrels from The New England Rain Barrel Company.

“The average homeowner uses approximately 40% of water for outdoor use,” said Curtatone. “At a time when we all know water is an added expense, we are pleased to be able to offer this excellent water conservation option to the community.”

The 55-gallon containers are designed to catch rainwater from the downspout of a home, making it possible for a resident to reuse the retained water in a garden or for other outdoor uses. A quarter inch run-off from an average roof is projected to fill a barrel.

Curtatone said local residents would receive the discounts from the New England Barrel Company through a program sponsored by the state’s Department of Environmental Protection.  Instead of the company charging its regular fee of $85 for the containers, Somerville residents will pay $62. Arlington, Cambridge and other communities have also participated in the program. 

“We are grateful that the state is able to make possible this moneysaving incentive to our residents,” said Curtatone. “We hope the discounts will prompt many Somerville residents to make this environmentally friendly investment.”

Residents may obtain a barrel by calling The New England Rain Barrel Company at 1-877-977-3135, or by visiting www.nerainbarrel.com. The pre-ordered barrels will be ready for pick up at the DPW yard between 9:00 a.m. and 12 noon on October 8, 2005. 

“Several nearby communities have already implemented a rain barrel program,” Curtatone said. “This is just another way Somerville is working to conserve and protect our environment.”

Residents with questions should call the city’s Environmental Coordinator, Vithal Deshpande, at 617-625-6600, extension 5070.

Contact: Vithal Deshpande