The City of Loyalton was notified on Tuesday it’s been accepted in the lottery for a maximum of 100 rain barrels, free of charge, one per household in Loyalton.
According to a letter sent the City on October 12, 2015: “Good Ideas is a company that is focused on water conservation and we have the largest selection of residential rain barrels offered in the nation (check www.goodideasinc.com). As the drought has worsened in California, we thought we would try and do our part to help the citizens of at least one town deep in the middle of the drought. We have selected Loyalton as one of our candidates.”
• Good Ideas, Inc. will offer a maximum of 100 rain barrels, free of charge, one per household in a chosen town;
• Freight is also included and will be arranged by Good Ideas, Inc.
• The township’s municipal office will inform its residents of the rain barrel giveaway. While Good Ideas will deliver the barrels to the township, the township is responsible for distribution of the barrels to households (maybe arrange for households pick up?)
• Spread good works via the media. A key township representative will need to be available for interview from the media.
• Good Ideas will provide contact information along with a questionnaire for residents to fill out and return. Only one barrel per household will be offered. Good Ideas, Inc. reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any point prior to distribution by the township.
Amy Filippini, Master Gardener and Schools Garden Program Director is most excited. She wrote, “I would love to have some for the school gardens and greenhouse and portables.”
Collecting rainwater for use during dry months in rain barrels or other depositories is an ancient and traditional practice. Historical records show that rainwater was collected in simple clay containers as far back as 2,000 years ago in Thailand, and throughout other areas of the world after that. With the rising price of municipal water and drought restrictions now facing much of the United States during the summer months, more and more homeowners in our own modern society are turning to the harvesting of rainwater to save money and protect this precious natural resource. In an increasing water crisis, people are seeking ways to minimize impact on their municipal water supplies. Rain barrels can be part of the solution. Just look outside your window the next time it rains and imagine all the water that’s running down your driveway being put to beneficial use in your home and garden!
