Washington, D.C. – For the last four years the Irrigation Association has named July Smart Irrigation Month.   Today, Representative John Linder (R-GA), along with Representatives Jim Costa (D-CA) and Bart Stupak (D-MI), have decided to make it official.  Linder and his colleagues introduced H.Con.Res. 118, naming July 2009 as Smart Irrigation Month.  The idea behind Smart Irrigation Month is to promote efficient watering practices, technologically advanced irrigation products and the benefits of more efficient irrigation in our nation’s communities, landscapes and agriculture.  

Linder stated, “This resolution simply supports the irrigation industry’s efforts to educate the public on the importance of using water wisely, responsibly and efficiently.  Scientific data suggests that water covers between 70 to 75 percent of the earth’s surface, but only one percent is available for human use.  Farmers, municipalities, businesses, homeowners and environmental needs are increasingly at odds as the American population continues to grow and demand escalates for this valuable resource.  According to the U.S. Geological Survey, about 85 percent of our nation’s water is used in the production of food, fiber and fuel.  Small gains made in irrigation produce significant increases in water availability for all other uses.”  

The irrigation industry has been a leader in promoting education regarding efficient water-use to individuals both inside and outside of the irrigation industry. Deborah Hamlin, Executive Director of the Irrigation Association, said, “Smart Irrigation Month is a valuable opportunity for businesses to promote water-saving products and services during what is traditionally the busiest time of the year for water use.”  

She went on to say, “We would like to thank Representatives Linder, Costa and Stupak for their leadership and continued support of smart irrigation practices and technologies.”   

Linder noted that despite recent heavy rains, people should continue to practice effective water management strategies that will balance the needs of all users while protecting water resources for future generations.  He noted, “It was John Steinbeck in his 1952 novel, East of Eden, who said, ‘And it never failed that during the dry years the people forgot about the rich years, and during the wet years they lost all memory of the dry years.’  That is our fight, and this resolution today is a step in the right direction.”                                  

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