Hi PJ,
I used a very large plastic trash can for several years. I believe it originally came from Sam's Club or the like, had a locking top and was gray heavy duty material. I was lucky to find a white plastic screen top by the road (blew off someone's truck I guess) that fit perfectly. I got a plastic faucet with screw on fastener, drilled a hole at the bottom of the trash can and attached the faucet. (the hardware store said the faucet was used for 'marine' applications) Eventually the handles and then other parts broke; since the same thing happened to my garden cart when it had frozen dirt in it, I finally figured out the plastic becomes extremely brittle in freezing weather. If I do another system, I would be sure to empty it over the winter and would probably use fiberglass screen material over the top (to keep mosquitos out) I've also heard of a place somewhere in Middletown? or Poughkeepsie? that gives or sells plastic 50 gallon apple juice drums.

I've been looking for a source as well, but I've also considered the trash can route. Here's an interesting site that gives info on how to make your own.

http://www.emmitsburg.net/gardens/articles/adams/audrey/water_barrel.htm

Here is a link that might be useful: Rain Barrels

Thank you for the replies. I am willing to try a garbage can. My only concern is that it will give in to the stress of the sheer weight of water. While I imagine this could be overcome by purchasing a good quality can, garbage cans can be quite costly when a name brand is involved. I will check out the "local" stores and try to find the juice barrels.