by Miranda Hitchcock
You know that the Co-op has amazing Suppliers- businesses that have been pre-qualified as the greenest and most community-oriented in their category. They supply everything from solar panels to eco-friendly paper, and truly support their local communities. But who are these mysterious Suppliers? Visit our blog frequently for “spotlight” pieces on each of our Suppliers.
This week we focus on Aquabarrel- the Co-op’s Supplier of rain barrels. Barry Chenkin, the owner, answers some interview questions to give you a look into what drives him (and Aquabarrel) to be green in the community!
Co-op: How would you describe Aquabarrel and what you do?
Barry: Aquabarrel is dedicated to supporting Water Conservation through the use of Rain Barrels and water conservation products for the home. Products are offered via website for shipment through out the USA and Canada.
Co-op: How did you get involved in this business, and what drives you to do it well?
Barry: While watering the plants in my yard with the garden hose one day, my wife asked if I knew what a rain barrel was. To my dismay, I had to admit that I had no idea… With my interest peaked, I spent many hours researching on the internet…. Following the traditional concepts of a rain barrel, I proudly made my own. When the first thunderstorm came I was giddy with excitement as the traditional rain 
barrel began to fill…. My excitement turned to shock as the barrel, now filled with rainwater, was overflowing out the top of the barrel, running down the sides and pooling at the foundation of our home. Watching this soggy disaster unfold convinced me that a few significant modifications were in order…. Every time I needed to water my yard with the traditional rain barrel I was faced with challenges that left me saying, “There’s got to be a better way!” The current Aquabarrel is the result of correcting several serious failures found in other designs.
Co-op: Why do you think you were chosen to be a Supplier?
Barry: There are a few rain barrel fabricators in the Metro area but none of them produce a product that functions as well as the original Aquabarrel Classic Rain Barrel. None of the local purveyors of rain barrels offers the vast selection of rain barrel sizes, shapes, colors, designs or the depth of accessories for completing even the most basic of installations.
Co-op:What made you decide to become a Supplier?
Barry: Mike is a nice guy and it’s hard to say no to him! I see the opportunity for groups to leverage their buying power with pre-screened vendors…. Folks that join the Co-op are interested in purchasing the products and services of the Co-op. As a Supplier Member the membership base are likely to… want to purchase the products we offer and would like a better value for their money (since they are part of the Co-op).
Co-op: We know that going green can save you money and improve quality of life- how much can your services really save someone, and what other benefits do you provid
e?
Barry:On a true cost per gallon it is pretty hard to compete with WSSC and
other water companies for processed potable water. But your plants don’t have teeth or medical issues that they need all that fluoride, chloride, xanax and who knows what else that’s in drinking water!
Give them what they really want – unprocessed rain water. Save the baby raindrops
TM is more then a catchy slogan – we have to take rain water and storm water management seriously. If we don’t increase our management of this resource we will have greater problems to solve later.
Co-op: If you could get one message out to the community, what would it be?
Barry: Make a decision to take action today and follow through and reward yourself for taking action right now.
Co-op Members receive a 10% discount on all products and services. In addition, several state and local incentives may apply to your purchase with Aquabarrel. For more information, email Barry or contact us. Aquabarrel is another incubator company at Bethesda Green.
Miranda Hitchcock is the Implementation Manager for the Maryland Energy & Sustainability Co-op
Posted by Energy Co-op 
