Madison Home Compost Bin and Rain Barrel Sale Saturday, May 13

posted May 10, 2017 – 12:21pm

Alliant Energy Center, 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

A 24 year spring tradition for homeowners and gardeners returns to the Alliant Energy Center this Saturday May 13th, with the annual compost bin and rain barrel sale. The event will take place from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., or while supplies last.
"It's estimated that over 30,000 homes in the Madison area already have rain barrels or compost bins," said Madison Sustainability Manager Jeanne Hoffman. “Individual efforts to capture and conserve water, compost street-gutter leaves, and reduce the amount of phosphorus runoff are important steps in keeping our Yahara Lakes clean and healthy.”
The 65 gallon compost bin will be available for $69.99, as well as two sizes of rain barrels, a 50 gallon rain barrel for $119.99 and 100 gallon for $214.99. Rain barrels are available in 3 different colors and include a downspout diverter and spigot. Buyers don't have to be from Madison to purchase the compost bins and rain barrels, and a buyer can buy as many items as wanted, while supplies last.
The effort coincides with a community-wide program by the Madison Area Municipal Stormwater Partnership (MAMSWaP) to promote practices that reduce and improve storm water runoff into lakes, rivers and streams. The Ripple Effect campaign is an effort to help homeowners understand three important facts:

Rain that runs off roofs, land and pavement travels through storm sewers and ditches to our lakes, rivers and streams.
Stormwater runoff carries excess nutrients like phosphorus with it, which can turn your lakes green and smelly.
The way to protect and clean your lakes and streams is to make sure only rain—and nothing else—goes into the storm drains and ditches!

It is estimated that our urban communities alone contribute about 30% of the total phosphorus that enter in lakes Mendota, Monona, Waubesa, Kegonsa, and Wingra from runoff.
The sale will be held rain or shine and bins are sold on a first come first served basis. Cash, checks, Visa, Master Card, and Discover card will be accepted. More information is available at: www.cityofmadison.com/streets/compost/CompostBinSale.cfm.