City Councilwoman Joann Ariola will host a rain barrel giveaway in Ozone Park on Saturday, Aug. 27.
The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Living Word Christian Fellowship, located at 132-05 Cross Bay Blvd.
“Rain barrels don’t only help homeowners to cut down on their water bills, but they can help fight against local flooding issues as well,” Ariola said. “Each barrel can keep up to 55 gallons of storm water from going into the sewer system. As so many of my constituents know, when it rains our sewer systems are often completely overloaded, leading to flooded streets and basements.”
With each barrel given to the public, according to Ariola, there is much less water entering into the system, giving much more reprieve to local residents who might otherwise find themselves inundated with floodwater.
Rain barrels are attached to a rain gutter to collect and store excess water during periods of rain. According to the city Department of Environmental Protection, stored rainwater can be used for outdoor chores, like gardening or washing your car. Using a rain barrel can help people save money, as outdoor chores can account for up to 40% of an average household’s water use during the summer.
Those interested in getting a free rain barrel must pre-register by calling Ariola’s office at 718-738-1083. One barrel is available per household.
