The City has collaborated with Green Calgary to deliver the Rain Barrel Sales program since 2010. These sales act as a major fundraiser and community engagement tool for Green Calgary and are an important part of The City’s water conservation programming. Rain barrels collect rainwater and provide a free source of water for our yards. Plants appreciate the soft, warm water, and homeowners can help reduce the amount of rainwater runoff that enters our rivers and creeks untreated. Calgary's average rainfall of 5 cm per month will provide approximately 4,000 liters of water. This can fill a typical 45-gallon rain barrel 20 times.
Starting this April, the “Together we can make every drop count” campaign will provide Calgarians with simple ways they can do their part to conserve water and use it wisely at home, in their yards and at their businesses. As we look ahead to spring, we should think about preparing our yards for dry conditions and potential water restrictions. Using a rain barrel is a great way to capture and reuse rainwater in your yard during this drought.
Rain barrels are available for pre-order through Green Calgary and cost $78+GST. You can also buy them later this spring at the following dates/locations between 10am and 2pm:
April 27th – IKEA (8000 11 Street SE)
May 4th - Dalhousie Co-Op (5505 Shaganappi Trail NW)
May 11th – Calgary Horticultural Society (2725 33 Avenue SW)
May 25th - Deer Valley Co-Op (1221 Canyon Meadows Dr SE)
June 1st – The Genesis Centre (7555 Falconridge Boulevard NE)
June 8th - West Springs Co-Op (917 85 St SW)
June 15th - Inglewood Community Garden (2297 17 St SE)
June 22nd - Community Natural Foods Chinook (202 61 Ave SW)
Pre-orders for rain barrels start on April 1st and can be picked up at these locations or can be delivered to you by Green Calgary for a delivery fee. Please note, pre-order sale quantities are limited.
Various types of rain barrels are also available at local hardware stores and garden centres around Calgary.
Remember, every drop counts when it comes to water conservation. By incorporating a rain barrel into your outdoor routine, you're not only benefiting your yard but also contributing to a greener, more sustainable Calgary.
For more information about rain barrels, visit The City’s rain barrel program page.