Sturbridge Rain Barrel Program
Let’s Save Every Drop of Water
Across Massachusetts, demand for water continues to rise while droughts are becoming more frequent and severe. Outdoor watering alone accounts for nearly 30% of household water use, and during dry summers, that number can double. At the same time, climate change is straining both water supplies and municipal infrastructure. Conserving water isn’t just about lowering bills — it reduces stress on local aquifers, protects streams and wetlands, and helps ensure safe, reliable water for future generations. It’s time for Sturbridge to get proactive.
This spring, residents can purchase discounted rain barrels ($80-89) through the Great American Rain Barrel Program. Each barrel captures 60 gallons of clean rainwater right from your roof — perfect for gardens, lawns, and even washing cars.
Rainwater is “soft,” — free from minerals and chemicals such as chlorine, fluoride, and calcium often present in municipal water. Rainwater is considered the perfect choice for watering plants or washing cars and windows. According to the US EPA, 30% of daily water use is outdoors. The EPA also states that rain barrels could save the average homeowner 1300 gallons of water annually and decrease water bills by as much as 40%. A 500 square foot roof can fill a properly installed 50-gallon rain barrel in approximately one hour. One full rain barrel will water a 200-square-foot garden.
To find out more about the barrels and to participate in The Great American Rain Barrel Program, please visit: www.greatamericanrainbarrel.com/community/ and select your town.
Order Deadline: April 29, 2026
Pickup Date: May 11, 2026 from 1:30pm to 3:30pm. Address: DPW, 1 New Boston Road Extension, Sturbridge, MA 01566.
Colors: Forest Green, Earth Brown, Nantucket Grey, or Unpainted
Eligibility: Non-residents may also participate, but pickup is required in Sturbridge at the date and time posted.
Here's how a rain barrel will help your community...
- Runoff, Runoff, Runoff....rain barrels reduce runoff!
- Improve residential storm management.
- Slow pollution from runoff.
- Lower municipal water demands & save energy at treatment plants.
- Can cut household water bills 40%.
- Can pay for themselves in one season.
- Offer a water supply to residents during periods of drought.
- Rain Barrels are chlorine free and an excellent water source for plants and gardens.
Some facts about The Great American Rain Barrel:
- Barrels are repurposed at our food importing plant in MA
- Versatile design, sturdy construction
- Choice of 3 earth tone colors
- Each barrel holds 60 gallons
- 100% recycled containers
- Manufactured in the USA
- 20 years of satisfied customers
Rain barrels are a cheap simple solution. Programs are designed to minimize work for towns while providing discounted barrels to residents. Help your community conserve water and energy. Sign up now for a Rain Barrel Program