Rain Barrel Workshop Recap

On Saturday, April 25th, CRCQL held a Rain Barrel eductational workshop at the J. Crozer Lewis Library in Chester, PA. Thirty community members came to learn about the importance of stormwater management, rainwater collection and how it could benefit not only the environment but also their homes. Attendees learned about the difference having a rain barrel on their property can make in reducing property flooding and potentially stormwater bills.

Our speakers included Lindsey Turner, a Swarthmore engineer graduate and stormwater specialist for the Philadelphia Water Department, who covered the basics of stormwater management, toxic flooding and how it impacts Chester residents. Brian from Delco Ponds led a presentation on how to assemble a rain barrel to your home’s gutter, tips for installation and how it can be used to water your garden and mitigate stormwater runoff from our properties. It can also reduce the risk of flooding by preventing excess water from overwhelming the local drainage systems. Brian gave tips for installation and discussed the escalating issues with stormwater management in our region due to increasing construction and development.

Two lucky attendees from our raffle were able to take home a rain barrel!! This successful workshop left attendees motivated to install their own rain barrel water system, whether through DIY methods or by purchasing a rain barrel kit from the store. Everyone walked away with tips on how to take proactive steps towards environmental sustainability and a newfound resilience against future flooding challenges.