FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Brandon Moorebmoore@tampabaywater.org727-796-2355
CLEARWATER, Fla. – Tampa Bay Water, in partnership with the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) County Extension Offices and Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program, is accepting applications for the 2017 Tampa Bay Community Water-Wise Awards. Residents, businesses and community organizations with water-efficient landscapes that represent the beauty and resiliency of Florida’s natural environment are encouraged to apply online by June 30, 2017.
To apply, applicants should visit tampabaywaterwise.org to fill out a short form and upload photos of their landscapes. If it meets basic criteria, a representative of the University of Florida IFAS County Extension will schedule an on-site evaluation of the landscape and irrigation system.
The awards program recognizes those who are committed to conserving water resources and protecting the environment by using the best in attractive, water-efficient landscaping practices.
Winners receive a custom-made, mosaic landscape stepping stone during a ceremony presented by county commissioners, city council members or mayors within their local governments.
“It’s important that the community take steps toward efficient water use and protecting our drinking water sources from pollution – the Tampa Bay Community Water-Wise Awards program helps residents and organizations do that,” said Dave Bracciano, demand management coordinator for Tampa Bay Water.
Landscapes deemed water-wise use less water, require minimal maintenance and protect the environment.
Getting your hands on the award stepping stone requires balancing Florida-friendly plants and landscape elements with attractive design and minimal maintenance, as well as using water-efficient irrigation techniques that reduce water waste.
Past award winners have turned once water-thirsty lawns into beautiful, water-thrifty creations their neighbors and communities can enjoy. Watch the Community Water-Wise Awards video series, a showcase of past winners’ experiences with the Tampa Bay Community Water-Wise Awards program. The videos include information about their personal landscaping practices and irrigation techniques, and the benefits of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™. See what it means to be water-wise!
The Tampa Bay Community Water-Wise Awards program is designed to recognize attractive, water-conserving landscapes in various water-use sectors (e.g., homes, businesses, industry and government). Moreover, the program seeks to identify actual examples of outstanding Florida-friendly, water-wise landscaping and to promote those principles within the community.tampabaywaterwise.org
Tampa Bay Water is the largest wholesale water supplier in Florida, providing high-quality drinking water to its members, who in turn, supply water to more than 2.4 million residents of the Tampa Bay area. Tampa Bay Water member governments include the cities of New Port Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa, and the counties of Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas.tampabaywater.org
For news media requests, please contact: Michelle Stom, MPA, APR Chief of Staff/Chief Strategy Officer O: (727) 791-2305 | M: (727) 418-4652 Brandon Moore, APR Public Communications Manager O: (727) 791-2304 | M: (727) 470-0702