The city of North Bend is selling 55-gallon plastic barrels that can easily be converted into rain barrels to store water from rainfall to use for watering the lawn, washing the car and other tasks around the home.

The barrels were originally used to store food items; all have lids, mostly a screw-on type, and come in a variety of colors including light blue, bright blue, gray and terra cotta. Each buyer will receive instructions on how to convert the barrels into rain barrels by adding a spigot or valve. Directions for adding PVC plumbing pipe to link barrels in a series will also be available.

Cost is $15 per barrel. The barrels will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, June 18, at the North Bend Public Works Shop, 1155 E. North Bend Way.

To purchase a barrel prior to that date, call City Hall at (425) 888.1211. A pick-up time must be scheduled.

Those interested may take a look at retrofitted rain barrels in place at the Public Works Shop building. Each of the rain barrels has a screen on top with a spigot along its side.

Why Rain Barrels?

Conserving water, i.e. improving the efficiency of its use, is one important way to address outdoor water needs. Finding and using other sources of water for local residential use, such as rainwater, can complement conservation.

Systems designed to catch and store rainwater take many forms. Rain barrels are one rainwater storage option and each barrel can catch about 55-gallons of rainwater.

Where can I get North Bend rainwater?

Snoqualmie Valley has an average rainfall of 60 to 80 inches per year. What better way to give your plants a drink than with North Bend rainwater straight from the rain barrel? A rain barrel is one way to water gardens wisely.

Again, you will receive information on how to retrofit a used 55-gallon plastic food-storage container as well as other considerations for making a decision to conserve water with a rain barrel.

Where else can I get a rain barrel?

Hardware and garden stores and Internet vendors provide information on rain barrels and cisterns.

Screening your barrel:

Be sure to protect all openings to your rain barrels with fine gauge screening. This will keep mosquitoes out so that they cannot breed in your containers. (West Nile Fever concern.)

Rain barrel water is not suitable for drinking, laundry or cooking. Stored water can be used to water lawns, flowers and for cleaning around your home.

For information, contact Tonie Cook at the city of North Bend by calling (425)888-1211.