North Georgia Rainkeepers With the drought conditions we have been facing in Georgia, quality and quantity of water has become a driving force in many of our programs. With that in mind, the Chestatee-Chattahoochee RC&D Council has developed a rain barrel program known as the North Georgia Rainkeepers. Rain barrels are containers or systems which collect and store rain water from rooftops for later use.  A rain barrel is relatively simple and inexpensive to construct and can sit conveniently under any residential gutter down spout. Rain barrels can be used individually or linked in tandem to capture a greater volume of water.  Rain barrels do more than catch rainwater. While collecting water from the downspout, these barrels also divert water from the municipal storm drain system, thus protecting our rivers and streams from runoff pollution.  Use of rain barrels helps control moisture levels around the foundation of your home as well as providing oxygenated, un-chlorinated water, which is ideal for plants.  The use of rain barrels is a practical way to conserve a vital natural resource. For every inch of rain that falls on a roof catchment area of 1,000 square feet, you can expect to collect approximately 600 gallons of rainwater.    For more information or to purchase a rain barrel, contact the Chestatee-Chattahoochee RC&D Council at 706-894-1591.

For printable information about the Rain Barrel Program, please select one of the links below. Rain Barrel Order Form Informational Brochure Instructions for Set Up Instructions for Assembly Painting Your Rain Barrel

Frequently asked questions:   What sizes do you have available?  Generally, we have 275 gal, 55 gal, 30 gal and 5 gal, barrels.  This varies with every truckload that we receive.   What are the dimensions of the barrels? 275 gal:   42”H x 38”W x 46”L 55 gal:     Tall:      39”       Short:   34 ½ 30 gal:     Tall:      34”       Short:   30” 5 gal:       These are enclosed buckets that have one 2” hole in the top with an attached handle.   What color are the barrels? Most of the barrels are white, a few are blue.   What are the barrels made of? All of the barrels are made of food grade plastic.   How much do the barrels cost? 275gal     assembled: $150.00   unassembled: $100.00 55 gal      assembled: $ 65.00    unassembled: $ 20.00 30 gal      assembled; $ 55.00    unassembled: $ 15.00 5 gal        $2.00   What does unassembled mean? This means that you receive a clean barrel. You can get instructions on “Instructions for Assembly” from our website. You must purchase your own parts.   How do I purchase a barrel?  Go to the link “Rain barrel order form” and print out the order form and send it in with a check or money order to the address on the top of the form.  We cannot accept cash.   After making payment, when can I pick up my barrel?  We try to fill orders as soon as we receive payment. This varies depending on when we get our barrels, usually within a two week window.   When can I pick up a barrel?  The office works a flexible schedule.  It is imperative that you call before you come in order to ensure the office is open and the barrel is ready for pick up.   Does the barrel come with a warranty or guarantee? No. We will gladly exchange barrels provided the purchased barrel has not been altered.   Can the barrels be painted? Yes. Go to the above link - “Painting Your Rain Barrel”    Is the barrel mosquito proof? No. We suggest using a capful of dish soap or vegetable oil periodically to help prevent mosquitoes.   Can the inside of the barrel be cleaned? Yes.   Can barrels be connected? Yes. Any of the barrels can be used in tandem.   How much rain can one barrel collect? On a 1,000 sq. ft roof with one inch of rain, you can collect 600 gallons of water.   Does the spigot have a garden hose connection? Yes.   Do you deliver barrels? Yes. Delivery is free within a 20 mile radius of Demorest. We will charge mileage for delivery outside the 20 mile radius.   Do you install barrels? The Council does not install the barrels however we can provide names of competent people that can install your barrel.   Can you customize the barrels? Yes. There is an additional cost for that service.   If you have further questions, please contact the Council office at 706-894-1591.