Fresh Meadows, NY – Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D,WF-Fresh Meadows), State Senator Leroy Comrie (D-Jamaica), and Council Member Rory Lancman (D-Hillcrest) teamed up with the City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for a rain barrel giveaway at Utopia Playground. The giveaway marks Assemblywoman Rozic’s fifth year organizing the event in the community. This year’s giveaway coincided with Council Member Lancman’s Family Fun Day. Over 200, 55- gallon rain barrels were distributed to Queens residents. Each homeowner received one rain barrel along with an installation kit, instructions, and the DEP Homeowner’s Guide to Flood Preparedness free of charge.

Residents should note that rain barrels should only be used for non-potable purposes such as gardening and must be disconnected from the downspout during the winter months to avoid freezing. Rain barrels are covered as to avoid standing water issues and are not for re-sale according to DEP.