Lafayette City-Parish Government still has a limited number of rain barrels available for citizens of the city and the unincorporated parts of the parish to buy.
The Public Works Department and Lafayette Utilities System (LUS) say the barrels can save money, conserve water and reduce stormwater. A few of the subsidized rain barrels are still available for purchase on a first-come first-served basis.
Rain barrels are designed to capture rainwater from rooftops as a source non-potable water that can be used to water flowers, plants or a lawn, wash a vehicle, and other outdoor water-related purposes. By collecting and using rainwater, residents are able to supplement their tap water usage and save money on their water bill, all while also conserving a vital natural resource. Capturing rainwater that would otherwise flow into the Bayou Vermilion also reduces the amount of surface pollutants from being introduced into the local watershed.
Due to popular demand, a limited supply of rain barrels is available for a subsidized price of $37.50 to qualifying participants. The subsidy is limited to one barrel per residence in the City of Lafayette or unincorporated areas of the Parish. Additional barrels, or barrels sold to residents outside of LCG’s jurisdiction, may be purchased for $49.50. All orders must be placed by April 22, 2018 and will be available for pick up on May 5 at the Dean Domingues Compost Facility, located at 400 Dugas Road.
Information about the program, including ordering a rain barrel, can be found at http://www.lafayettela.gov/PublicWorks/Pages/Rain-Barrel-Program.aspx or http://lus.org/index.php/water/water-conservation/rain-barrel-program
