<font color=blue>INDUSTRY BUZZ</font> Take Part in Smart Irrigation Month

The Irrigation Association has proclaimed July as Smart Irrigation Month. This program is a public relations campaign created by the Irrigation Association and endorsed by the federal government to raise the public’s level of awareness of the importance of efficient irrigation practices. 

The irrigation industry’s response has been wonderful. Manufacturers are focusing trade publication advertising on the latest technological advances in water conserving products. During July, many distributors are creating special incentives for water conserving products. Contractors are positioning their companies as expert in water-saving products and practices. Overall, we are creating long-term customers who value expertise and performance.

It’s time to tell your story, promoting healthy landscapes and the value of our green industry. The Irrigation Association, through Smart Irrigation Month, hopes to help you reach your customers, promoting the importance of proper irrigation management and conservation.

The Irrigation Association has created a variety tools that can assist you in your efforts promoting your company as a green partner. Whether you’re installing a new landscape or updating an existing landscape, there’s a lot of great information available at no cost to you and your company.  Some of the articles available include:

• Plan Right and Plant Right to Save Water – Planning your landscaping carefully can help conserve water.
• Teaching an Old Irrigation System Some New Tricks – Updating your irrigation system for greater efficiency.
• Right from the Start – Creating an efficient irrigation system starts with proper planning, then selecting the best contractor, and finally properly scheduling the controller.
• Keeping Up Appearances – A well maintained irrigation system is an efficient irrigation system.

In addition to tips and information, the Irrigation Association has created a logo which is free to use promoting Smart Irrigation Month (see left). Companies have integrated the Smart Irrigation Month message into their “on hold” messaging. There are public service announcements, sample advertisements, statement stuffers, and a press release template available (see below).

The need to use water wisely has never been greater and all of us can do our part. Smart Irrigation Month is an opportunity to draw attention to efficient irrigation practices, creating focus on water conservation and our role in environmental stewardship. Visit the Irrigation Association’s web site at www.irrigation.org/smart month.htm. for more information.

Tom Barrett, a 20-year veteran of the irrigation industry, works for the Kenney Corp. and is a member of the Irrigation Association’s communications committee.  He can be reached at tom.barrett@kmcturf.com or 317/650-6117.