Left, the Earth Machine compost bin. Rain barrel, right. Photos: courtesy RAM

Ah, Spring. I'm so glad to see you.

Now that I can see my grass, I'm thinking of the outdoor projects I need to tackle. One of them is installing my rain barrel I bought last year. I never got around to hooking it up.

The Recycling Association of Minnesota is again offering rain barrels (two design, both $65) and a new design of a compost bin (for $55.)

Rebates are offered to residents living in certain areas of the metro. Go here to see if you're eligible for the rebate.

You can order online and pickup will be at different locations. Once you order, you must pick up from that location, accoring to Ellen Telander, RAM director. You can place your order here and view locations.

If you're one of those folks who like to build their own rain barrel, I found this how-to video from Lowe's on YouTube.