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More Than 600 Free Rain Barrels Distributed Through Citywide Program

Posted on 04/13/2021
Rain barrels distributed at giveaway events

LOS ANGELES, CA (April 13, 2021) – The City of Los Angeles’ rain barrel distribution program, organized by the Board of Public Works, Keep Los Angeles Beautiful (KLAB), Office of Community Beautification and LA Sanitation and Environment (LASAN), successfully distributed more than 600 free rain barrels to residents throughout Los Angeles. During the wet weather season, eight contactless pick-up events were held at various LA Sanitation and Environment facilities. The events were hosted in collaboration with various Council Offices, Pacoima Beautiful and Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling. This program was created to encourage local residents to harvest rainwater.

“Through the rain barrel distribution program, we’re offering residents the opportunity to take personal action to conserve water, which is one of our most vital resources,” said Board of Public Works Vice President and KLAB Chair Aura Garcia. “We are grateful for all of the partners involved in helping us continue efforts to promote water sustainability and for the community members who have responded so enthusiastically.”

The rain barrels available through this program are intended to harvest rainwater for landscape irrigation and other non-potable uses. This initiative helps the City make progress toward Mayor Eric Garcetti’s Green New Deal goals for water conservation which includes reducing potable water use per capita by 22.5% by 2025 and 25% by 2035. By installing a rain barrel, homeowners can conserve water, reduce the amount of polluted stormwater runoff that flows into our local waterways, and save money on their water bill.

“LASAN is pleased to be a partner in this initiative that provides free rain barrels to the community making it easier and more accessible for everyone to participate in the City’s sustainability and water conservation efforts,” said Enrique C. Zaldivar, Director and General Manager of LASAN. “Rainwater harvesting is a simple way that Angelenos can make a big impact and help protect the environment.”

In 2014, the City’s rain barrel distribution program began in partnership with The Coca-Cola Company who generously donates the 45- and 55-gallon repurposed syrup barrels. Since then, rain barrels have been distributed to eligible residents who are also educated on how to properly install and maintain their barrel. Residents of the City of Los Angeles are eligible to receive one rain barrel per household per calendar year with registration in advance of the events.  

“Since this program began, its popularity has allowed us to educate thousands of City residents on the proper use and maintenance of rain barrels for water harvesting,” said Paul Racs, Director of the Office of Community Beautification. “We’d like to thank our partners who allow us to continue distributing rain barrels to community members and help us to promote water conservation efforts.”

Those who were unable to participate in the most recent events have the option to purchase a rain barrel or cistern at a home improvement or garden store and apply for the SoCal Water$mart Rebate Program offered by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), in conjunction with the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. Rebates start at $35 per barrel or $250 per cistern. For more information on rebate programs, visit the LADWP website.