ERIE COUNTY (WKBW) — Erie County officials are helping homeowners help the environment.
The county is teaming up with the City of Buffalo, the Town of Wheatfield and the Western NY Stormwater Coalition to offer rain barrels and compost bins. It's an effort to reduce environmental footprints through water conservation and reducing fertilizer use.
Officials say the rain barrels reduce stormwater runoff, which happens during heavy rainfalls when water doesn't soak into the ground and can carry pollutants to local waterways. Using the harvested rainwater for watering lawns, gardens and potted plants also helps conserve water. Environmental officials also say the natural water is better for plants than tap water, which contains chlorine and flouride.
Meanwhile, officials say home composting restores nutrients to the soil, stimulates plant growth and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. Composting yard trimmings and food scraps also reduces waste in landfills.
Quantities are limited. The deadline to order is May 3.
Click on this linkto order your own rain barrel and compost bins.