Fight drought and reduce runoff with a discounted rain barrel

Rain barrels help conserve water, which can be used to water lawns, gardens, and indoor plants, general outdoor cleaning, and even washing your car or bike, all while saving money on water bills. Photo: Utah Rivers Council.

UTAH — The RainHarvest program, sponsored by the Utah Rivers Council and participating partners, is offering residents a discounted 50-gallon rain barrel through its RainHarvest 2025 program. The Ivy Rain Barrel is available for $85, a $67 discount off retail pricing. It comes with a 6′ overflow hose, screen and screen ring, two releasable zip ties, an overflow cap, and a plastic 3/4″ ball valve.

If you reside in Park City and Summit County, you can purchase a barrel for $57 while supplies last, and $85 wholesale-priced barrels are available for people residing in areas not participating in the program.

“Each purchase helps to support the Utah Rivers Council mission of protecting your local waterways,” the organization’s website stated.

Rain barrels help conserve water, which can be used to water lawns, gardens, and indoor plants, general outdoor cleaning, and even washing your car or bike, all while saving money on water bills. Collecting rainwater also aids in preventing runoff, water pollution, erosion, and flooding.

According to Drought.gov, 77% of Utah is a drought area.

Rain barrels purchased through this page are non-subsidized. Residents are encouraged to check whether their community offers additional subsidies via this link.

The Utah Division of Water Rights requires additional documentation for those registering three or more rain barrels. This documentation can be submitted at waterrights.utah.gov/forms/rainwater.asp.

The barrels can be picked up in several counties on designated dates and times:

• Utah County: Wednesday, May 7, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. (location TBD)
• Weber County: Friday, May 9, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. (location TBD)
• Salt Lake County: Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (location TBA)
• Summit County (Park City): Sunday, May 11, 2025, from 12 to 2 p.m. (location TBA)