The Water Conservation Office offers the 50 gallon Ivy rain barrel at a discounted price of $30.00 for interested customers in the Santa Cruz Municipal Utility water service area. The barrels are available from November - March or until supplies are depleted.
To purchase an Ivy rain barrel:
1. Stop by the Water Conservation office, located at 212 Locust St, Suite B. Office hours are Monday - Thursday 8:00am-12:00pm and 1pm-5:00pm.
2. Pay for your rain barrel by check or cash only.
3. We deliver your rain barrel for free.
*WHILE SUPPLIES LAST --
LIMIT 2 RAIN BARRELS PER PERSON*
Specifications and Instructions
• 50 gallon capacity
• Dimensions: 42.5" height, 22.5" top diameter, 18" bottom diameter
• Made in the USA
• Link multiple barrels together using the overflow hoses
• Safety Information
• Installation instructions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to put my rain barrel?
Choose a downspout on your house or garage that is closest to the plants you water the most. Ivy is a gravity-fed system so choose a downspout where the overflow will soak into your garden and not your neighbors'.
How do I install my rain barrel?
The Ivy rain barrel will weigh 424 pounds when full so please make sure you install it on a level foundation or sturdy blocks. Placing the barrel on blocks will allow easier access if you place the spigot in the bottom port. The 3/4" ball valve hooks up easily to a garden hose to send the water where you need it. Remember being gravity fed, Ivy will not have city pressure coming out of the spigot, but you will have enough pressure when full to extend a hose 25 feet with no incline.
Follow the installation instructions that come with the rain barrel. Measure the combined height of the barrel and blocks to help you determine the height to cut your gutter. Remove the bottom gutter elbow and set aside. Cut your gutter with a hacksaw and attach the elbow downspout to the gutter. Be sure to give yourself approximately two to four inches between the downspout and lid of Ivy so that you can easily lift her lid and clean her out when necessary.
What do I need to know about maintaing my rain barrel?
The rain barrel requires very little maintenance and upkeep. Secure the lid and keep the screen clear of debris at all times. To avoid stagnant water, periodically drain your rain barrel and clean the inside with brush and fresh water and a little vinegar.
What about mosquitos?
The Ivy is equipped with a mosquito-proof screen on the lid to keep mosquitos and other insects out. Make sure the supplied componenets are installed in their proper positions and you will not have to worry about mosquitos. For more information about mosquito prevention and control, visit the Santa Cruz County Health Services website.
More Information
Want to learn more about Ivy specifications and frequently asked questions? More information available here.