CLEARWATER, Fla. - Tampa Bay Water has begun accepting entries for the 2007 Community Water-Wise Awards. The awards, which recognize attractive, water-efficient landscapes in a variety of categories, will be presented to the recipients during City Council and County Commission meetings.
Entries are judged on multiple criteria. Positive factors include the use of
drought-tolerant or native plants and trees, use of plants that are appropriate for site conditions, inclusion of elements that prevent stormwater runoff, efficient use of irrigation and overall aesthetic appeal. Landscapes that include such water-wise, Florida-friendly features not only help reduce the amount of drinking water used for irrigation-they also help protect the fragile Florida environment by minimizing the use of potentially harmful chemicals like pesticides and fertilizers.
Interested individuals and businesses are encouraged to learn more about the Community Water-Wise Awards and to enter their landscape online by visiting http://www.TampaBayWaterWise.com. The deadline for entries is 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 31, 2007. Landscapes in the following categories are eligible for a Community Water Wise Award:
- Residents/Homeowners
- Multi-Family Properties
- Commercial Properties
- Governmental Properties
- Builders (new homes)
- Schools
- Other
