Residential
Rain Barrels
Using a rain barrel is one of the simplest ways to protect the Aquidneck Island watershed.
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EARTH MONTH 2026 RAIN BARREL WORKSHOPS
Barrington | Bristol | Middletown
54 Rain Barrels Built
This April, 54 community members rolled up their sleeves and built rain barrels they can use for years to come.
Rain barrels may seem simple, but their impact is significant. Each one helps reduce stormwater runoff, conserve water, and prevent pollutants from washing into local streams, rivers, and Narragansett Bay during heavy rain events.
What makes these workshops especially meaningful is that participants leave with more than a rain barrel. They leave with a deeper understanding of how individual actions contribute to healthier watersheds and stronger communities.
By capturing and reusing rainwater at home, these residents are helping protect Rhode Island's natural resources while saving water and supporting more sustainable landscapes.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in Barrington, Bristol, and Middletown and chose to take action in a practical, hands-on way. Together, we're making a difference, one rain barrel at a time.
What is a rain barrel?
Rain barrels are repurposed plastic drums, donated by partners like Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast and the Rhode Island Brewers Guild, that attach to and collect rain water from the downspout on your house.
How does a rain barrel help the watershed?
It all begins with rainfall. When it rains, water washes harmful pesticides and waste down the streets and into the watershed. Rain barrels divert this water, keeping our watershed cleaner.
How can I get my own rain barrel?
Attend one of our rain barrel workshops! Keep an eye out on our events page for upcoming workshops and join our mailing list to be the first to know about upcoming events.
How to Build a Rain Barrel
Follow the instructions in the YouTube video below. There is also a materials list and FAQ to help guide you. Please contact sara@easternriconservation.org with any questions.
View our Rain Barrel FAQ!
Rain Barrels in Action
One of the best parts of our rain barrel program is seeing these projects put to use long after the workshop ends.
This rain barrel was built during our Make & Take Rain Barrel Workshop with Cox, where employees stepped away from their desks for a hands-on learning experience focused on stormwater management and water conservation. Participants learned how rain barrels help reduce runoff, conserve water, and protect local waterways—all while building something practical to take home.
The photo below, shared by a Cox Conserve employee, is a wonderful reminder that small actions can make a meaningful difference. Every rain barrel captures and reuses water that would otherwise flow into storm drains, helping homeowners save water while supporting healthier landscapes.
We are grateful to Cox for partnering with ERICD on this workshop and for their ongoing commitment to conservation, education, and community impact throughout Rhode Island.
Thank You to Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast and the Rhode Island Brewers Guild for donating used barrels to us to turn into rain barrels!
