We’ve been out installing rain barrels all summer, and one of our favorite parts of each installation is getting to meet and chat with applicants. We’ve gotten a few recurring questions about Green Light and our programs, so we decided to make a small list of Frequently Asked Questions (with answers) in case you’ve been wanting to ask us something.
If you don’t see your question here, feel free to email us at rainbarrel@greenlightneworleans.org or call 504-324-2429.
Are Green Light’s rain barrels only available to Orleans Parish residents?
No! Any resident of Orleans, Jefferson or St. Bernard parishes can apply for the program. If you live outside of those parishes and would like a rain barrel, please call us at 504-324-2429.
Can I get more than one barrel? 
Of course! Our goal is to help address New Orleans’ flooding and subsidence challenges. The best way for this program to have a big impact is for each home to collect at least two rain barrels’ worth of water during each rain event.
Program participants can actually have two rain barrels installed at the minimum cost share level of $10 each. If you would like more barrels just email rainbarrel@greenlightneworleans.org or call 504-324-2429 to apply for additional barrels.
Can I paint a rain barrel?
We love having volunteers come and paint rain barrels, and we can generally accept any volunteers Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Submit a volunteer application form at www.greenlightneworleans.org/volunteerapply, check the box for “Rain Barrel Artist” and indicate when you would like to come paint. Green Light provides all the paint, brushes and other supplies. Just be sure to wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirty.
What is happening with the garden program?
The garden program still exists, and people who are interested in having a garden installed at their home should apply at www.greenlightneworleans.org/gardenapply. While we are still accepting new applications, implementation has slowed down due to a lack of funding. We are currently in the process of applying for grants so we can implement the garden program on a large scale again.
Can I attach a hose to my barrel?
Rain barrels do not provide enough water pressure for use with a regular garden hose. We recommend using either a watering can (healthiest option) or a special low pressure soaker hose (like this) .
Can I put my barrel on my porch?
When the rain barrel is filled, it weighs 400 lbs. The pavers we use to elevate the barrel weigh 342 lbs. This means that the section of your porch where you place your barrel needs to be able to support ~750 lbs. If you are not confident the porch can support this much weight, it is probably best to consider an alternative location for the barrel.
I had a rain barrel installed by Green Light but would like to have it relocated to another downspout at my home. Can Green Light come and move my barrel?
Green Light is a small organization, but we make every effort to accommodate requests like this. With that in mind, we are able to relocate barrels for a $25 fee + the cost of a kit to patch the original downspout. This fee helps Green Light cover the cost of staff time and transportation to get to your home. If you would like to have Green Light relocate one of your barrels, please email rainbarrel@greenlightneworleans.org or call 504-324-2429.
