June 11 Update:  We have ordered in 30 more barrels and expect them to arrive late this week.  Best to call the store to make sure they have arrived before setting out.  We are hoping to get grey and terracotta.  Note that this batch will be $55 plus tax, proceeds to the REAL Deal Store, payment must be cash.  

If you need other products or replacement parts, please check rainbarrel.ca for other local sales.

The REAL Deal Store is located at 85 William St. W., Smiths Falls and is open Thursday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays (for the season) 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Call ahead if you would prefer to check availability:  (613) 283-7999.

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REAL will be hosting a rain barrel fundraiser to raise funds for a Monarch Butterfly Garden it is planning.

Rain barrels are a great way to save water and benefit your plants. 

Rain barrels provide a free source of water that is ideal for vegetables, trees, and plants because it does not contain fluoride and chlorine, which are added to many municipal water systems. They enable residents to collect water through the rainy season for use during dry summer months. When outdoor water restrictions are in place, water from a rain barrel can be used to wash vehicles and water lawns. Having a source of stored water can be beneficial if an emergency ever arises.  Rainwater also has the benefit of being a similar temperature as the air, and does not shock plants’ roots like tap water does.

REAL is partnering with RainBarrel.ca for this sale.  RainBarrel.ca reclaims food grade barrels and repurposes them as rain barrels. Once used to transport fruits and vegetables, they now offer years of reliable service as rain barrels. Partnering with various non-profit organizations, RainBarrel.ca helps stage truckload fundraisers in communities across Canada.

Each rain barrel includes a leaf and mosquito filter basket, an overflow adaptor, a spigot and an overflow hose.  Gardeners have their choice of blue, black, grey or terracotta barrels, subject to availability.  Rain barrels are $55 each and can be pre-ordered  and paid for online at RainBarrel.ca/realdeal/.   Pre-ordered rain barrels will be available for pick up on Saturday, May 11 at the REAL Deal Store, 85 William St. W., Smiths Falls from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Please order by May 1 to ensure you rain barrel arrives by May 11.

REAL will receive $10 from every rain barrel sold; and $2 from each downspout diverter, stand or flower pot sold.  Proceeds will support the monarch butterfly garden being planted on the REAL Deal site this summer  in honour of REAL’s 30^th anniversary this year.   Watch for photos are the project develops!

For more information email REAL at [email protected], or call Barb at (61) 283-9966.   Specific product questions should be directed to  i[email protected].