Despite low prices and rebate opportunities, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago has seen a marked decline in rain barrel sales over the past three years.
Used to collect and reuse rainwater from rooftops, the MWRD’s repurposed, 55-gallon plastic barrels go for $58 per unit, plus tax (prices for barrels bought commercially can range from $70 to $500). The district has been selling the barrels since 2009. The price includes home delivery and an installation kit.