Environmental Stewardship
Rain Barrels
Great for You, Our Community & The Environment
The West Chicago Environmental Commission conducts an annual Rain Barrel Sale which is heavily promoted through City communication channels. This active group of volunteers wants fellow residents to know that a quarter‐inch of rainfall on an average home, produces an estimated 200 gallons of water.
A rain barrel is an easy and environmentally‐friendly way to collect clean water for outdoor use, including watering plants and washing cars.
The barrels are repurposed, industrial‐sized food containers that would otherwise be shredded and possibly sent to a landfill. The tops are modified to keep mosquitoes and other pests out while letting the water flow freely into the barrel. A spigot is installed to make water easy to access.
Rain barrels are offered for sale through a partnership between the West Chicago Environmental Commission and The Conservation Foundation. Available barrels hold 55 gallons and come in multiple colors. Rain barrel accessories and composters are also available.