Water conservation remains at the forefront for the Lone Star State, especially for those in agriculture.
To promote water conservation and new advancements in technology, the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) is currently accepting applications for the Texas Rain Catcher Award, which also recognizes excellence in the application of rainwater harvesting systems.
The program, which has been held annually since 2007, identifies individuals, companies and organizations from across Texas who have successfully implemented rainwater conservation practices into their daily operations.
TWDB presents awards in each of the following four categories: agricultural, commercial/industrial, educational/governmental, and residential. One winner will be chosen from each category each year.
The competition is open to all individuals, companies, organizations, municipalities and state governmental entities in Texas.
Criteria that will be judged for the applications includes:
- Demonstration of how the rainwater harvesting system has helped conserve surface water and/or groundwater through reduced dependency on conventional water supply systems.
- Demonstration of how the rainwater harvesting system has saved money for the owner.
- Originality and innovation as evidenced by the application of new knowledge, new application of existing knowledge, or an innovative mix of existing and new knowledge.
- Demonstration of how the system has benefited the environment (for example, reduced erosion or the threat of flooding) without itself adversely impacting the environment.
Uniqueness of the system.
Once an entry has won an award, it cannot be entered again unless substantial changes to the system warrant its consideration as a new and different system. This determination will be at the discretion of the judging committee.
For more information on eligibility requirements and application instructions, visit the Texas Rain Catcher Award webpage.