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Content by Lisa Merwin, CPESC What is Downspout Disconnection? Downspout disconnection is the process of separating roof downspouts from the sewer system. Downspout disconnection decreases peak discharge of rainwater by reducing the speed and volume of roof runoff entering the sewer system. Why is Downspout Disconnection Important? In periods of increased rainfall intensity and duration, sewer overflow can cause sewer backups and basement flooding. Rainwater also contributes flow to the wastewater treatment plant, increasing the cost of treatment which is passed along to the consumer, YOU. Water Conservation Tips 1. Make sure your faucets are not leaking. 2. Run the dishwasher and washing machine only when they are full. 3. Defrost food in the refrigerator instead of using running water. 4. Keep a container of water in the refrigerator rather than running the water until it is cold. 5. Test all toilets regularly for leaks. 6. Take shorter showers and replace old showerheads. 7. Limit grass areas and use trees, shrubs and other plants that require less water to landscape your yard. 8. Water during the coolest part of the day and never water on windy days. 9. Instead of using a hose, wet a broom to clean decks, sidewalks and other paved areas. 10. Cover pools to prevent evaporation. Where Can I Get More Information? City of Albany Department of Water and Water Supply www.albanyny.org/stormwater.aspxerSupply.aspx Stormwater Coalition of Albany County http://www.stormwateralbanycounty.org/ Albany County Soil and Water Conservation District http://www.albanycounty.com/Government/Dep artments/SoilandWaterConservationDistrict/stor mwatermanagement.aspx US Environmental Protection – Water Sense water_reuse.html Peter W. Beck Stormwater Program Manager Department of Water & Water Supply 10 North Enterprise Drive Albany, NY 12204 [PHONE REDACTED] [EMAIL REDACTED] ---PAGE BREAK--- Content by Lisa Merwin, CPESC What is Rainwater Harvesting? Rainwater harvesting is the practice of collecting for use rainwater from hard surfaces such as rooftops. Why Harvest Rainwater and Disconnect Downspouts? Rainwater can increase the potential for flooding and property damage. Many older communities such as Albany have combined sewer systems, which carry sewage and stormwater runoff in the same pipes. When it rains, the stormwater runoff causes the combined sewers to fill to capacity and some of the stormwater and raw sewage mixture may overflow directly into the Hudson River. This is called a combined sewer overflow (CSO). CSOs pollute our waters and can be hazardous to human health and safety. What is a Rain Barrel? A rain barrel is a water collection system that collects and stores rainwater from your rooftop. It is an easy and inexpensive way to collect and store rainwater that can be used when needed at a later time. Benefits of Using a Rain Barrel It contributes to our City’s use of green infrastructure. It provides an ample supply of free “soft water” to homeowners containing no chlorine, lime or calcium, making it perfect for flower gardens, flower pots and car washing. It diverts rainwater from storm drains, decreasing the impact of runoff going into the sewer system. While running from our homes and lawns, stormwater picks up anything on the ground such as litter, excess fertilizer, pet waste and motor oil and transports it to storm drains that DO NOT treat the water before dumping it directly into our waterways. Rainwater stored in a rain barrel helps reduce stormwater pollution by decreasing the amount of stormwater runoff reaching our streams and rivers. It saves most homeowners about 1,300 gallons of water during peak summer months. Help inform your neighbors by teaching and encouraging them to do the same. Tips for Using a Rain Barrel 1. Do not drink or cook with water from your rain barrel. 2. Do not use it for watering fruit or vegetable gardens. 3. Use the inlet top with screen to keep insects and rooftop debris out. 4. Install it securely to keep it child-proof and prevent tipping. 5. Provide an overflow for your rain barrel (direct excess rainwater away from the barrel OR link multiple barrels together). 6. Do not use old barrels that formerly held toxic materials. ---PAGE BREAK--- Content by Lisa Merwin, CPESC 7. During spring and summer months routinely inspect your rain barrel. 8. Disassemble rain barrels during winter months to keep them from freezing and breaking.