Art rain barrel bidding
| 
The bidding is now open for the Rainwater Revival’s art barrels – professionally designed and decorated rain collection barrels sure to add a delightful yet purposeful accent to your yard. Funds from the auction support rainwater collection and conservation program grants to Hill Country schools. Bidding is open through 4 p.m. on October 25, the end of this year’s rainwater edu-fest in Dripping Springs, where a computer will be available for last-minute “gotta have it” bids.
Along with spirited bidding, vendors who can supply all the items necessary for the do-it-yourselfer or home- and business-owners looking for a turnkey system, noted specialists in rainwater collection, native landscaping and “how-to” will be presenting during the daylong event in Dripping Springs, TX.
“This is an especially good time to learn about how you can capture free water from the sky for some or all of your water needs,” said Karen Ford, the Hill Country Alliance board member who leads the Rainwater Revival event. “Whether rain comes on schedule or infrequently in heavy downpours, you can learn how to save money and the environment. Our annual, free event brings together experts, vendors, exhibitors and all the knowledge you need to begin or further your rain catchment at your home or business.”
Speakers lined up for this year include a panel of homeowners whose houses run entirely on rainwater and who will share insights and answer questions, a how-to session for DIYers by the AgriLife Extension Service, “Rainwater 101” and new design standards by Billy Kniffen, a nationally known rainwater catchment expert and an update on rainwater regulations and legislative efforts to define and regulate catchment. Attendees can also learn what and how to plant to help retain water on their land, visualize a net-zero model of Hill Country water use, ponder the future of groundwater and spring flow and what it means to include roof-reliant landscaping on your property.
Two winners of the Texas Water Development Board’s Rain Catcher Award will be honored at the Revival this year: Bandera High School, which installed a rainwater catchment system that now waters its baseball field, and Texas AgriLife Extension’s Water Sense Home, retrofitted in the Dallas area to include a rainwater catchment system. The award is given to promote technology, education and excellence in rainwater system application.
No edu-fest would be complete without food and music. Food trailers will be on site and the Hot Texas Swing Band with Alex Dormont will entertain during the lunch break.
Children will be entertained at an arts and crafts booth where they can enjoy hands-on projects centered on conservation.
The 2014 Rainwater Revival gets underway Saturday, October 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Dripping Springs Ranch Park event center, 29401 Ranch Road 12. Visit www.rainwaterrevival.com for more information about the event or to bid on a rain barrel.
