Rain Barrels

Morris County landscape contractors can offer their clients reduced cost rain barrels. While commercially advertised rain barrels can sell for $125 to $300, the Soil Conservation District is offering them to Morris County residents for $60. A downspout kit is also available for $15.

Joseph Dunn, manager of the county's Soil Conservation District, said his agency is offering discounted rain barrels to Morris County residents. ''A rain barrel can reduce your water bill by reducing consumption,'' Dunn said. ''It can also help reduce pollution from the chemicals water run off picks up before the water washes into our streams and rivers.''

The 55-gallon rain barrels being offered by the Soil Conservation District are designed for watering either by connecting a garden hose to a spigot on the rain barrel. The rain barrels are made of safe, recycled food-grade plastic for extended use, and come sealed with enough room for a down spout to be inserted into the top.

The rain barrels may be ordered by calling the Soil Conservation District office at 973-285-2953 or by e-mailing the office at morris@mcscd.org.