By KENNEDY GRIFFIN
(Greenfield, MA) The Greenfield Department of Public Works is selling rain barrels to help residents in the ongoing drought.
As of October 7th, the Connecticut River Valley Region of Massachusetts has been upgraded to a “mild drought” as September rains have provided some relief. However, streamflow is declining in some areas again due to low groundwater and little rain since the end of September.
Greenfield DPW Recycling Coordinator Janine Greaves said, “Rain barrels provide an alternate source of water, particularly during droughts, and can reduce residential water bills by up to 40%,” while helping the City manage its water resources by reducing runoff, cutting water demand and saving energy at the treatment plant.”
“As we experience more extreme weather events locally, including floods and droughts, the effects of climate change are becoming more pronounced and our actions can have a big positive impact,” said Greenfield Energy and Sustainability Director Carole Collins. “Given that a quarter-inch rainstorm can typically fill a rain barrel, harvesting and using rainwater on your property is easy and helps to mitigate these effects, reduce pollution and improve local watershed health.”
The 60-gallon barrels come with a hose connection and a filter to keep bugs and debris out. The barrels are available for a discounted rate of $79 at the DPW office at 189 Wells Street. The DPW office will be closed Monday, October 10th, but is otherwise open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and can be reached at 413-772-1528 for more information.