Columbia, SC--With rain barrels and compost bins becoming gardening staples, Richland County is working to make them more affordable for residents.

The County’s Sustainability Office is teaming up with Keep the Midlands Beautiful, Carolina Clear and the City of Columbia to offer FreeGarden RAIN 55-gallon rain barrels and FreeGarden EARTH compost bins at reduced prices. Residents can pre-order the items online or on the phone. The items will be available for pick-upon March 22. 

The cost for the rain barrel is $60, compared to the usual price of $150. According to Keep the Midlands Beautiful, the average homeowner uses about 40 percent of a household’s water for outdoor use. A rain barrel is an economical way to conserve water for use around the home. The FreeGarden RAIN 55-gallon rain barrels are easy to transport, install and use.

The cost of the compost bin is $50, compared to the regular price of $100. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, compost enriches soil, helps prevent pollution and offers economic benefits because it can reduce the need for water, fertilizers and pesticides. The FreeGarden EARTH compost bin allows backyard composting in an effective, compact unit. It has a pest resistant lid and a large opening that offers easy access to add material and maintain the compost pile.

To order your rain barrel, compost bin and accessories, call Keep the Midlands Beautiful at (803) 733-1139 or order online at www.enviroworld.ca/midlands.  Orders must be placed by 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 8.  Residents can pick up their orders from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 22 at the Gamecock Bi-Lo shopping center at 4464 Devine St., Columbia.

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Conservation Districts are political subdivisions of state government under the local direction of five-member Boards of Commissioners. In South Carolina, Conservation District boundaries conform to County boundaries.  The Richland Soil and Water Conservation District promotes the wise planning and use of natural resources for the benefit of the citizens of Richland County.

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