Atlanta Watershed To Host Rain Barrel Workshops

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Sandy Springs resident Lora Fischman and daughter Helen enjoyed the city of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management’s rain barrel workshops so much that they committed to coming back with friends.

“We really enjoyed our time in this class,” Lora Fischman said of the July 22 event. “We can’t wait to paint our rain barrel and share with our Girl Scouts troop.”

Residents will have two more chances this year to take advantage of the Watershed Management’s 2015 rain barrell workshops. Those classes are lined up for Aug. 19 and Sept. 23.

Participants will get hands-on training on how to prevent erosion, stormwater runoff and pollutants from entering streams through educational techniques and on-site assistance with assembling a rain barrel.

Rain barrels serve as an additional household water source for car washing, and lawn or garden irrigation. As demand for water increases during warmer months, this water conservation technique saves consumers gallons of water and money.

The U.S. EPA says rain barrels can save up to 1,300 gallons of water between the months of April and October for uses such as car washing and watering lawns and plants.

All workshop sessions are conducted from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Water Works Lodge, which is located at 655 Green Street NW. The registration cost is $40 per person, and covers all materials needed to assemble the 55-gallon barrels.

Due to limited space, interested residents are encouraged to register early to reserve a place in the workshop.

To save a spot or place your barrel order, contact Danita Ogandaga at 404-546-3217 or dogandaga@atlantaga.gov. Please be advised water from rain barrels is not safe for consumption.

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Photo: Lora and Helen Fischman, mom and daughter team from Sandy Springs. Credit: Atlanta Department of Watershed Management.