West Virginia State University Extension Service is helping residents reduce stormwater runoff and save water through a series of hands-on workshops in central and southern West Virginia -- including here in Kanawha County.
Workshop participants learn how to collect rainwater with rain barrels. Each class also provides the tools and information needed to set up a rain barrel system at home.
“Through these workshops, participants learn about the benefits of rainwater harvesting and receive the tools and knowledge needed to get started,” Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Educator Liz Moss said.
Rain barrels collect water that runs off rooftops during rainstorms. Homeowners can reuse the stored water for tasks such as watering gardens and flushing toilets. Using rain barrels also helps reduce stormwater runoff that can contribute to flooding and water pollution during heavy rain.
The program has already provided more than 200 rain barrels to community members, according to WVSU Extension.
Moss said if each of those barrels collects one full 55-gallon load each year for three years, residents will harvest about 33,000 gallons of stormwater. She said many participants have found creative ways to use the collected water, showing a commitment to conserving natural resources.
The program, supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, aims to reduce pressure on local stormwater systems while giving residents a practical way to manage rainwater at home, organizers said.
For more information and to learn about upcoming sessions, contact Moss at elizabeth.moss@wvstateu.edu.
