LAWTON — The city of Lawton’s stormwater division will host a rain harvesting event, where residents can learn to build their own cisterns for outdoor use, later this month.
The drive-through event, which is open only to Lawton residents, will run from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Oct. 29 in the Elmer Thomas Park Holiday House at Third Street and Ferris Avenue. Proof of residency will be required.
Everyone who purchases a barrel or cistern will receive step-by-step instructions on building and installing a rain harvesting system, according to a news release from City Hall. Fifty-five-gallon barrels will cost $20 apiece, and 250-gallon cisterns will be available for $50 apiece.
The city will accept only cash (for the exact amount) or checks for the items, according to the news release. Supplies are limited to one barrel or cistern per person/address and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Preorders and reserves will not be accepted.
Barrels and cisterns offer a cost-effective alternative to using tap water for watering yards, and they reduce stormwater runoff, according to the news release.