Tucson, Arizona, United States: Since 2005, the Irrigation Association (IA) has promoted each July as Smart Irrigation Month, an initiative that celebrates the social, economic and environmental benefits of efficient irrigation for landscapes, golf courses and farms worldwide.

With Smart Irrigation Month 2019 upon us, Rain Bird – a Platinum Member of the IA – is encouraging consumers and irrigation industry professionals alike to mark this special time by emphasising the importance that irrigation technology has had on our lives.

“Since 1933, Rain Bird has focused solely on developing efficient irrigation technologies for farms, golf courses, sports arenas, commercial developments and homes,” said Alex Nathanson, Corporate Marketing Brand Manager for Rain Bird, an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.

“Smart Irrigation Month is extremely important to us because it promotes the same core values that our company was built upon so many years ago. While we all need to use water wisely year-round, Smart Irrigation Month helps us shine a spotlight on the positive impact that irrigation innovations continue to have worldwide,” he added.

The IA will celebrate Technology Tuesday on July 9 and encourages everyone to use the #SmartIrrigationMonth hashtag on social media that day to express their support of water-efficient irrigation technology. On that same day, the IA will also announce the winners of the 2019 IA and Irrigation Foundation Awards, a program recognising individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the irrigation industry.

To encourage advocacy and engagement among its industry partners, the IA is offering Smart Irrigation Month resources and tips for free download on its website. These resources include the Smart Irrigation Month logo, infographics, social media cover photos, sample proclamations and press releases, public service announcements, statement stuffers and other promotional materials.

“Water is one of the world’s most precious resources and in recent years it’s become clear that droughts and water shortages can happen just about anywhere,” Nathanson said. “While Rain Bird continues to develop new irrigation technology and products, our customers in the landscape, golf and agriculture industries are also working hard to build beautiful green spaces and grow healthy crops with less water.

“By collaborating – not just during Smart Irrigation month, but all year long – we can all do our part to preserve the world’s fresh water supply for future generations.”