Catch the Rain and Water Savings
The Environmental Sustainability Board was pleased to offer “Ivy” rain barrels through a new program. Residents were able to purchase the rain barrels at a discounted price to encourage residents to conserve precious water resources as well as to protect water quality. The purchased rain barrels were initially purchased and distributed in May 2017 and the program continues today. Click for rain barrel program details.
The City of Hendersonville is committed to protecting our water quality and managing storm water runoff. This program is an important step toward protecting clean water in our community because it offers an inexpensive and proven option to help people make a difference in their own backyards. Rain barrels offer a number of benefits to the community and residents including
- reducing stormwater runoff pollution from residential lots,
- allowing residents to store and use rainwater for irrigation and gardening during times of drought,
- lowering water bills, and
- reducing the demand on the municipal water treatment and supply.
The rain barrel captures rainwater from roof-tops by connecting to the homes downspout. This water would typically be sent down the storm drain carrying potential contaminants and contributing to flash flooding. The cumulative effect of rain barrels implemented throughout a geographic area can have a significant impact on stormwater management and water quality. Water collected by the rain barrels can be used for gardens, lawns, and washing cars or pets.
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The members of the Environmental Sustainability Board adopted the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Park located at Fourth Avenue/Grove Street through the City's Adopt-A-Park/Trail Program. They thought driving by the Park, it looks rather pristine and clean. On close examination they found a lot to pick up. The biggest culprit by far was cigarette butts. They recommended large commercial ash trays predominately around the bus stop and actually strategically placed everywhere, They also recommended recycling containers added which has been done by the Public Works Department. This has made a wonderful difference in the Park!