Penn State Extension Master Watershed Stewards Accepting Orders For Kits To Turn Plastic Barrels Into Rain Barrels To Capture Stormwater

Curious about capturing rainwater but unsure where to begin? The Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward Program is offering rain barrel accessory kits designed to make the process simple and effective. 

These kits include the essential fittings, diverters, and connectors needed to transform a plastic barrel into a functional rain barrel helping Pennsylvania residents manage stormwater, conserve water, and support healthier watersheds.

Each kit includes the necessary fittings, diverters, and connectors to convert an HDPE plastic barrel into a fully functioning rain barrel. 

Please note: the barrel is not included with the accessory kit. 

Basic tools and equipment will also be needed for assembly. Kits are available for purchase at select Penn State Extension offices, which you can choose during registration.

How to Order

-- Choose the number of rain barrel accessory kits you'd like to purchase.

-- Select the Penn State Extension County Office where you'd like to pick up your kits.

-- After placing your order, watch for an email from your County Coordinator with pickup instructions.

Orders will be accepted through June 30, 2026.

Click Here to preorder and for more information.

Visit the Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward Program webpage to learn more about becoming a Master Watershed Steward.

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-- Allegheny Conservation District, State, Federal Partners Invest $1.4 Million In Clean Water, Healthy Soil Farming Projects  [PaEN]

-- Chesapeake Bay Monitoring Cooperative Involving Over 100 Organizations Celebrates 10 Years Collecting Data To Support Restoration Efforts  [PaEN] 

-- Dr. Eve Puhalla Honored By Upper Hanover Township In Montgomery County With Keep PA Beautiful Community Pride Award  [PaEN]

NewsClips:

-- WHYY: Brandywine River Restoration Trust Removes 2nd Dam As Part Of Its Restoration Project

-- TribLive: ‘Trash Wheel’ Could Soon Be Working To Remove Litter From Monongahela River 

-- Penn State Research: Freshwater Tidal Marshes Like The One At The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge In Philadelphia Trap Microplastics, Raising Risks For Ecosystems And People 

-- Altoona Mirror Letter: Old Crow Wetlands Being Degraded By Convenience Store Construction - By Michael Kensinger, Juniata Valley Audubon Society  [PDF of Article]

-- PennLive Letter: Gov. Shapiro - Protect Big Spring Creek In Cumberland County By Compelling DEP To Enforce Its Rules - By Big Spring Watershed Association

[Posted: September 16, 2025]  PA Environment Digest