Irrigation Association announces 2024 SWAT award recipients

The Sonoma-Marin Saving Water Partnership and Aurora Water, based in Aurora, Colorado, have been named recipients of the Irrigation Association’s 2024 Smart Water Application Technologies Awards, recognizing their contributions to water conservation and public engagement. 

The Sonoma-Marin Saving Water Partnership received the Outstanding Industry Partnership Award for its Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper program. The program educates landscape professionals on sustainable irrigation practices and has expanded across eight Western states and British Columbia, with over 6,000 participants.  

“The Sonoma-Marin Saving Water Partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration in driving meaningful change within our industry,” says IA CEO Natasha Rankin, MBA, CAE. “Their commitment to engaging landscape professionals through the Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper program has had a lasting impact not only in their local community but across the broader western United States and beyond. The Irrigation Association is proud to recognize their leadership and innovation in promoting sustainable water management, and we look forward to seeing continued success as we work together to promote efficient irrigation practices.” 

Aurora Water was awarded the Outstanding Public Engagement Award for its Outdoor Water Assessment Program. The program educates residents on irrigation system efficiency, providing tailored recommendations for repairs and updates. In 2024, the program conducted 345 assessments, resulting in significant water savings. “Aurora Water’s ability to empower residents with tailored advice and sustainable solutions not only improves irrigation efficiency but also fosters long-term environmental stewardship,” says Rankin. 

Both awards were announced at the WaterSmart Innovations Conference and Exposition on Sept. 26. Applications for the 2025 awards will open in early 2025.