Rain Barrel for a Kin Domain

During the winter I researched rain barrels and discovered how easy they were to make once you knew where to find the materials. I purchased an empty barrel from our local soft drink bottling company for ten or fifteen dollars. The other parts were obtained from the local chain hardware store. The only tools necessary were a drill, a scroll saw, and a wrench. I chose to seal the run off drain with a clear acrylic caulk. My parts are well sealed, but not being a master with the caulk tube, I made a smeary mess.

There was a considerable amount of problem solving involved in the final layout. Not every corner and downspout is conducive to the alignment of a rain barrel. I had to consider the distance to the garden and the height of the barrel so that I'd get maximum gravity for proper drainage. I've discovered that my fifty-five gallon barrel provides thirty minutes of controlled soaker hose watering for my whole garden. To fill the barrel I need a half inch rainfall.

I like the idea of capturing run off. I can also see how easy it would be to create a line of barrels and in one rainfall capture enough water for an entire week. If I were to connect into a drip line instead of soaker hose there would be even less water waste. I must admit that I'm enjoying the thinking process from this simple project. I have created a heighten awareness regarding my water usage.