Jul 2, 2012

July is Smart Irrigation Month

July marks the eighth anniversary of Smart Irrigation Month, an initiative started by the Irrigation Association (IA) that’s dedicated to increasing awareness of water-use efficiency and water-saving products, practices and services.

July is traditionally the month of peak water demand in North America, according to IA. The campaign is designed to educate growers and other users about simple ways to save money and water. IA also tries to encourage industry firms and professionals to promote smart irrigation practices and technologies to customers.

First launched in 2005, Smart Irrigation Month is gaining traction as stakeholders recognize the potential impact of efficient irrigation in July and year-round, according to IA.

“July is a peak water-use month that warrants heightened attention,” said Dave Magner, sales and business development manager at Rain Bird and chair of IA’s Smart Irrigation Month Committee. “This is also a real opportunity for companies in the irrigation industry to differentiate themselves and add value for customers by promoting water-saving products, practices and services.”

Following the campaign, participants are invited to submit marketing materials by Aug. 31 and participate in the Smart Marketing Contest. The contest recognizes winners in both agriculture and turf/landscape categories. Entries are judged on messaging, quality, creativity and integration of the Smart Irrigation Month mission. The contest is free to IA members and, for the first time, is open to nonmembers for a nominal fee, according to IA.

There is a Smart Tips for Smart Irrigation Month e-newsletter with ideas for participating in the campaign, as well as a webinar featuring suggestions and success stories for manufacturers, dealers and distributors, contractors and water providers. More promotional materials are also available from IA.

Visit the Smart Irrigation Month website for more details.

By Derrek Sigler, Assistant Editor