Rain Barrel and Stormwater Education

Overview

WV DEP's Watershed Improvement Branch has Basin Coordinators that partner with local organizations, such as stormwater utilities and watershed groups, to host stormwater education workshops. Oftentimes, these workshops will include information on how to install a rain barrel to help reduce stormwater pollution into nearby creeks, streams, and rivers. Installing a rain barrel is one way a citizen can help reduce nonpoint source pollution from their property, installing a rain garden is another simple option.

Benefits

When installed and maintained correctly, a rain barrel can be very beneficial to both the environment and residents. Rain barrels offer the following perks:

Contact Us

Watershed Improvement Branch
West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection
601 57th Street SE
Charleston, WV 25304
Phone: (304) 926-0440
Email: Contact Us
Basin Coordinators

Rain Gardens

Rain Gardens, also known as bioretention cells, are a beautiful way to manage stormwater on site. A rain garden is a constructed depression in the soil that ranges from a few inches to several feet in depth, depending on the amount of area that drains into the rain garden. The depression is filled with an engineered soil mixture that allows water to percolate quickly. The garden is then planted with shrubs and flowers that "drink" up the stormwater.

• Rain Gardens

  Read about rain gardens in our Green Infrastructure section.

• WVDEP Headquarters Rain Garden

  In 2008, the WVDEP installed a rain garden in the northwest corner of the parking lot.

It All Adds Up

• Infographic: Stormwater Education 'It All Adds Up'

From the Land to Your Water

Every time it rains, the runoff that reaches rivers and streams can add a heavy pollution load to Old Man River. The polluted runoff is caused by all of our activities in the watershed.

• Infographic: From the Land to Your Water

What Is a Rain Barrel?

A rain barrel is a rainwater collection system. Water is diverted into the barrel through a connection in the downspout. The rain collected can be used to water plants, wash cars, and more. This water often contains trace minerals which are highly beneficial to plants and come at a zero cost to consumers. Collecting rainwater can also help reduce stormwater runoff into streams via storm drains. Stormwater can carry pollution like pesticides, litter, bacteria, and fertilizers–reducing the amount that flows into local waterways can improve the health of those creeks, streams, and rivers.

Rain Barrel Resources

• Brochure: How to Build and Install a Rain Barrel

  Downloadable brochure covering the steps involved in building and installing a rain barrel.

• Rain Barrel Q&A Reference Sheet

  A downloadable copy of the questions and answers shown below on this page.

• How to Winterize Your Rain Barrel

  A guide for getting your rain barrels ready for winter, produced by the Watershed Improvement Branch.

Rain Barrels for Nonprofits and Educational Institutions

WV DEP's Watershed Improvement Branch (WIB) has a limited number of rain barrels available for educational institutions and nonprofits. Organizations are encouraged to submit an application, so that WIB can determine their eligibility. Organizations with a current or planned flower and/or vegetable garden will be given priority. Eligible organizations will receive a rain barrel and parts kit, hands on installation with student participation, and a 1+ hour water education session utilizing Project WET (Water Education Today) activities.

• Rain Barrels for Nonprofits and Educational Institutions Program Application Form

Rain Barrel Questions & Answers

Please note that this information applies to rain barrels that were installed with the DIY Rain Barrel Diverter & Parts Kit by EarthMinded.

How Do I Keep Mosquitos Out of My Rain Barrel?

This rain barrel is a closed system, which will limit mosquitoes from entering the barrel. Changing the water level of your barrel by using the collected water can also prevent mosquitoes from finding the rain barrel as a suitable nursery. Additionally, tablets or bleach can be added to the rain barrel to kill insects and bacteria.

How Can I Keep Natural Debris Out of My Rain Barrel?

The first step to limit debris from entering your rain barrel is to install gutter guards. Additionally, filters can be installed on the downspout to stop any debris from entering the rain barrel.

Do I Need to Clean My Barrel?

Yes, all rain barrels will accumulate minimal debris in the form of pollen or sediment. We recommend to clean rain barrels with soap and water at least once a year (such as when you winterize it).

How Do I Keep Algae From Growing in My Rain Barrel?

See the City of Charleston’s Stormwater Program’s brochure “How to Paint my Rain Barrel.” Barrels that are in full sun will receive UV damage over years. It is recommended to gloss (top coat) your barrels once a year if painted.

Should I Elevate My Rain Barrel?

There are advantages to elevating a rain barrel, such as increasing the gravitational pressure of water flowing out of the barrel, but you need to consider all safety precautions when elevating a rain barrel. Rain barrels should be installed on a strong, stable, and level planar surface to minimize the chance of tipping. If using cinder blocks, it will take three.

Do I Need to Winterize My Rain Barrel?

All residents of West Virginia should winterize their rain barrel. Winterizing will prolong any rain barrel system by preventing water from freezing and expanding or damaging vital components to the rain barrel system. To winterize, simply drain the barrel with the drain hose and disconnect from the downspout. Clean and dry the barrel. Store it indoor or at least out of UV light if possible.

What Does the Barrel Do When It is Full?

Once your barrel is full, water will be diverted to exit through your downspout.