“Water efficiency is the keystone of the irrigation industry,” Kimmell said. “The Water Sense label will provide independent confirmation for consumers who want products and services that make the best use of water. It will also raise awareness of the importance of water efficiency.”

The EPA announced on June 12 that it has established Water Sense, a water efficiency program, and released its Water Sense logo, which will help consumers identify products and services that meet the program’s criteria for each product category.

The Irrigation Association’s Smart Water Application Technologies?EUR??,,????<

Certification of irrigation professionals is another important way to ensure efficient and effective use of water, Kimmell said. The IA has offered its programs as a model for establishing high standards for professional irrigation certification. EPA said recognizing certification programs would be the first step for the Water Sense program.