MANALAPAN — The Manalapan Environmental Commission hosted a “Make & Take” rain barrel workshop on July 25 at the Manalapan Recreation Center. The event was held to promote environmental awareness, according to a press release from the township.
The goal of the workshop was to provide participants with instruction about how to make and install an eco-friendly rain barrel. A rain barrel collects rain water from the roof and is placed under a gutter’s downspout next to a house. It was explained to participants that the rainwater that is harvested can be used to water flowers, shrubs, trees and lawns, according to the press release.
A rain barrel allows a homeowner to conserve water, save money on his water bill and help avoid basement flooding. The workshop also informed homeowners about how they can help with storm water management and reducing pollution in local waterways.
For a fee of $55, participants were provided with all the materials and tools needed to build one rain barrel. Instruction was provided on how to assemble the rain barrel and how to install it in their homes, according to the press release.
Members of the environmental commission built a rain barrel at the workshop which will be installed at the Manalapan Recreation Center with educational signs to remain as a demonstration for residents.
The workshop was led by Thomas Mathulewicz of the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Monmouth County. It was co-sponsored by the Manalapan Environmental Commission, the Monmouth County Master Gardeners and Rutgers University.
A second rain barrel workshop is being planned. For more information about the next workshop, contact the Manalapan Environmental Commission at [email protected]