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THE IMPACT OF RAIN BARREL CONSTRUCTION WORKSHOPS ON LANDSCAPE AND HOME WATER CONSERVATION

Applied Research

Richard Mohr
County Agricultural Agent
RUTGERS COOPERATIVE EXTENSION OF OCEAN COUNTY
TOMS RIVER

Abstract

Home landscaping has proven to be a significant use of residential water. As a part of the Sustainable Landscapes Education Program, Rutgers Cooperative Extension is providing education about landscape water conservation for the benefit of water supplies, homeowner economics, and also as a method of stormwater reduction. Interest in rain barrels in Ocean County is high. Mohr and Muscio follow up rain barrel construction workshops with surveys to collect information on the use of rain barrels made at the workshop, the construction of additional rain barrels for the participant’s own use, and the involvement of participants in educational activities in their work or neighborhood environments. Initial results with pilot workshops indicate a high percentage of adoption of various water conservation practices by participants following the workshops. Key design elements of the workshops include 1) a reduced cost when compared to commercial, ready-made rain barrels, 2) provision of tools, materials and in-person instruction, and 3) family-friendly nature of cooperative construction methods. Residents not only learn how to make their own barrels, install and maintain their own barrels, they are connected to a network of volunteer data collectors and community educators who promote water conservation and offer continuing support.

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

A poster file has not been provided

Authors: * R.A. Mohr, C. Muscio
  1. Mohr, *. Agriculture and Resource Management Agent, Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County, New Jersey, 08755
  2. Muscio, C. Marine Extension Agent, Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County, New Jersey, 08755