Lexington, S.C. - The Lexington Countywide Stormwater Consortium will host a “Build Your Own Rain Barrel” Workshop on Friday, March 20, 2020 from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Check-in will begin at 8:45 a.m. at the Town of Irmo municipal building located at 7300 Woodrow Street.
Representatives from the Lexington Countywide Stormwater Consortium will present information on stormwater runoff, rainwater harvesting, and how to make the rain barrel before helping each attendee to build one to take home.
Rainwater harvesting is simply the capture of rainwater on your property for reuse. Rain barrels typically collect runoff from a roof. This water can then be used to water a garden, wash a car, or a variety of other uses.
Stormwater runoff occurs when impervious surfaces such as rooftops and pavement prevent the natural infiltration of rainwater into the soil. When stormwater washes into storm drains, it flows directly into lakes, rivers, and streams; it is not treated at a wastewater treatment plant. The increase in volume of water to streams and creeks causes erosion, siltation, and flooding.
When it rains, stormwater picks up pollutants such as pet waste, motor oils, pesticides, fertilizers, litter, and bacteria and deposits them into local waterways that also serve as drinking water and recreational resources. Therefore, reducing stormwater runoff helps to save water, save money, and reduces stormwater pollution
The cost to attend the workshop and make a rain barrel is $30. To register for the workshop, contact Mary Hite, Lexington County Community Development, at (803) 785-8121 or mhite@lex-co.com.
