If you’re looking to save money and help out the environment, the Town of Olds’ rebate programs for rain barrels and compost bins might be just the thing for you.
According to the town, the two initiatives are designed to encourage residents to take “proactive steps” towards environmental conservation. Through the programs, residents who purchase a rain barrel or a home composter on or after April 22nd, are eligible to receive a 50 per cent rebate, up to a maximum of $50 per item.
Rain barrels
New for the Town, the rain barrel rebate program is described by officials as an inexpensive, easy to install method of conserving water in the summer.
According to the Town, the average rain barrel holds around 200 litres of water and depending on precipitation levels, will typically fill around three times a summer- saving roughly 600 litres of water every season.
Compost bins
The compost bin rebate program aims to reduce the amount of organic waste sent to the landfills, while encouraging healthier plant growth and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers among local gardeners.
Officials say nutrient-rich, homemade compost also helps to retain moisture in soil, further contributing to the Town’s water conservation efforts.
Three steps
Both programs can be accessed through three simple steps.
First, applicants must determine their eligibility by proving their residency in Olds and their Olds Utility Account. From there, applicants can purchase a new rain barrel, before sending in their completed application form and original sales receipt for the item they wish to collect a rebate on.
Application forms can be accessed on the Town of Olds’ website.
