MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – A program to give free rain barrels to Macomb County residents in two cities has expanded to a third community.
The program, created by the Macomb County Public Works Office, began in Roseville in August with the delivery of 200 rain barrels. The cost of the barrels was funded by the Southeast Macomb County Wastewater Disposal System.
The project was then expanded to Eastpointe, where another 200 rain barrels were delivered. Eastpointe was chosen because most of the city has “combined” sewer systems in which the pipes carry the combined wet weather flow and sanitary sewage.
Mount Clemens is the third Macomb County city to have a free rain barrel program. Up to 166 Mount Clemens residents will receive one rain barrel through the program.
“Our department frequently hears from county residents who understand the importance of these projects and the necessity to protect Lake St. Clair and water quality. Many of them ask, ‘What can I as an individual homeowner do to help?’” Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Candice S. Miller said. “Rain barrels are a great way for households to help because every gallon counts, and the younger generations see and learn at an early age the importance of protecting our environment. Plus, using the rainwater from the barrel to water gardens and lawns helps users save on their water bills.”
How Mount Clemens residents can get a free rain barrel
The barrels will be given out on a first come, first served basis to residents who complete the application on the city’s website and do not have separated storm and sanitary sewers at their home.
Residents can check this map to see if they are eligible. Residents can visit the Mount Clemens website to apply for a rain barrel.
The rain barrels are expected to be delivered to the city in December. They are former olive barrels imported from Greece.
What is included with the rain barrel?
The rain barrel is a 58-gallon barrel, made of high-density polyethylene, that includes a brass spigot, brass overflow valve, and plastic mesh screen for the lid that were installed by MI Rain Barrel.
The kit also includes a flex-elbow rainwater diverter for the home downspout, a 6-pack of mosquito dunks, and a wooden stand made of recycled wood.
How the rain barrel program was funded
The Mount Clemens program is funded by the city and the Macomb County Public Works Office, who are each providing $10,000, and a donation of $10,000 from Steve Saph, Jr., of Nickel & Saph insurance agency in downtown Mount Clemens.
“We’re delighted that the pilot project has expanded to a third community so quickly. We tip our hat and thank Steve Saph for his unsolicited generous donation which made this project possible in the county seat,” Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Candice S. Miller said.
“I’m encouraged by the story I read about the first community, the City of Roseville, and immediately thought about my own hometown, Mount Clemens, and was happy that Candice and her team were willing to work with me to bring the program here,” Saph said. “I hope it inspires others in the county to do the same for their own community.”
“We are thrilled to launch the Mount Clemens rain barrel program in partnership with the Macomb County Public Works Office. This initiative not only promotes sustainable water practices but also underscores the power of collaboration in our community. A sincere ‘thank you’ to resident and business owner Stephen Saph, Jr. for his generous donation to kickstart this program, and to Commissioner Candice Miller and her team for their crucial financial contribution. Together, we’re building a greener, more resilient Mount Clemens and cleaner Lake St. Clair,” said Mount Clemens Mayor Laura Kropp.