The Rain Bird float was based on the importance of water conservation and environmental preservation, in keeping with Rain Bird's commitment to the intelligent use of water. Preservation Celebration dazzled the parade watchers and judges with its voluminous waterfalls and jungle creatures within a ancient temple setting.

We always set out to make a dramatic impact, said Dave Johnson, Rain Bird's director of marketing. Preservation Celebration focused on bringing awareness to the central role that water plays in sustaining (us) all ?????????(R)???????? and to inspire the public to think about the part each of us plays and the actions we can take toward preserving our natural surroundings.

On board Rain Bird's float were animal enthusiasts and environmental ambassadors: Jack Hanna, director emeritus of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Columbus, Ohio and host of Into the Wild has ridden the Rain Bird floats from 1999 through 2008. Mr. Hanna also appeared on Larry King Live Jan. 5 with an assortment of exotic animals. Walter Crawford, founder and executive director of the World Bird Sanctuary in St. Louis, Mo. was also on the float and has been every year since 2001.

Rain Bird's entry was built by the award-winning team at Fiesta Parade Floats and designed by the talented Raul Rodriguez.