The City of Rochelle is rolling out a new rain barrel program to encourage RMU customers to utilize rain water for lawn irrigation. The program utilizes stormwater management funds to cover a portion of the cost of the barrels.
Rain barrels capture water from residential rooftops through the downspout. Since they are made from shipping barrels that were used to transport food, they may be lightly scuffed or have small imperfections.
The City has partnered with Upcycle Products, Inc. where customers may order a rain barrel online and have it shipped directly to their home. Two options are available – both 55 gallon – but one with an additional overflow hose. The utility will cover $50 of the cost of each barrel, which is automatically deducted at checkout. Limit one per address. Customers are welcome to purchase additional barrels at full price. In 2023, a total of 100 subsidized barrels are available.
To order a rain barrel, visit upcycle-products.com.