 rain barrel intro that is hosted on another page but links to rain barrel page why not rainbarrels  it s true that it rains a lot in the pacific northwest but unlike other parts of the country that receive rainfall yearround here in the portland metro area we typically receive the least amount of rainfall during the summer months a time of year when our outdoor water usage is at its highest take a moment to consider your landscape s water needs and you will likely find that it will take far more than a one or two 55 gallon rain barrels to keep your garden happy throughout the summer though rain barrels are not the most effective conservation method they will help save some water find out other ways to conserve water indoors and outdoors   