Rain Barrels
As of Summer 2022, the Association is no longer making rain barrels.
In 2009, a small crew from the Association began creating rain barrels by converting 55 gallon plastic barrels. 400 barrels were made during that first summer, with 100s more being created and sold over the years to help fund Washburn activities (like the recurring Washburn Garden Expos).
Need instructions on how to install a rain barrel? Click here for a PowerPoint presentation.
Rain Gardens
In the city where flash flooding can overwhelm sewer pipes, rain barrels and rain gardens are a terrific way to conserve water and reduce storm water runoff. In residential areas, rain gardens are a more effective way to manage a larger quantity of water runoff. Contrary to popular belief, rain gardens are not designed to be wet for long periods and should be established in areas with good drainage. To find out more about building a rain garden, read the UW-Extension booklet, Rain Gardens:a How-to Manual for Homeowners or contact Karl Green at La Crosse County UW-Extension – karl.green@ces.uwex.edu.
Other Ideas for Managing Water Runoff
The UW-Extension also publishes a booklet for businesses that provides ideas for managing runoff from rooftops, parking lots, and other impervious surfaces – Managing Storm Water Runoff: a Self-Assessment Guide for Wisconsin Businesses.
Washburn Neighborhood Association 