By Jen Schatz
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wuky/local-wuky-838832.mp3
Lexington, KY – Rain barrels are miniature versions of much larger detention and retention ponds that help control runoff from rain events. Last year, the city's Department of Environmental Quality made available, on an experimental basis, 500 of the brown, plastic containers nicknamed "The Lily". Mayor Jim Newberry says the Lily is an economical and "green" way for Lexington residents to get hundreds of gallons of free water.
The cost of the Lily is $150, however, city government contributes $75 to the program so final out-of-pocket for residents is $75. This year, Lexington residents who want to purchase the rain barrels can do so online. More information is available at the city's website at Lexington-ky-dot-gov-slash-lily.