The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) is encouraging the use of rain barrels to conserve water.

Because watering yards and washing cars can account for up to 40 percent of municipal water usage during spring and summer months, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) is encouraging Hoosiers to use rain barrels to conserve water.

Precipitation that is collected in rain barrels can be stored or released slowly into gardens and landscapes. This redirects water into the ground where it can be absorbed, rather than funneled into lakes and streams, where it can carry household contaminants such as motor oil and fertilizer.

While limiting pollution and flooding, rainwater is also ideal for many uses around the garden. Containing fewer types of sediment and no minerals, water collected in rain barrels is perfect for gardening, as well as washing the car and windows.