Irrigation & Lighting

2 weeks ago | irrigationandlighting.org | Luke Reynolds

The Irrigation Association, Fairfax, Virginia, has opened its application portal for the 2025 Anthony W. “Tony” LaFetra scholarship program. The program is open to students at two- and four-year institutions of higher education pursuing irrigation-related degrees and careers and provides scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 awarded based on the candidate’s letter of intent, financial need, resume, list of irrigation courses and letters of reference.

2 weeks ago | irrigationandlighting.org | Luke Reynolds

A new law in Colorado will ease licensure requirements for professionals working on backflow prevention devices, reversing a more restrictive policy passed last year and restoring access for many in the landscape and irrigation industries. H.B. 25-1077, signed into law by Governor Jared Polis on March 28, removes plumber licensure requirements for individuals who inspect, test or repair backflow prevention devices. The bill maintains licensure only for those who install or remove the devices.

2 weeks ago | irrigationandlighting.org | Luke Reynolds

IA advocacy leads to EPA pause in development of WaterSense spray sprinkler nozzle specificationThe Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., has announced it is pausing development of a WaterSense specification for spray sprinkler nozzles. This move comes after receiving feedback from stakeholders, including the Irrigation Association, utilities, manufacturers and environmental groups.

3 weeks ago | irrigationandlighting.org | Mike Zawacki

While they may sound like over-the-top claims, most irrigation professionals possess firsthand accounts of clients’ substantial cost savings and dramatic water reductions following irrigation audits. Brad Wier’s story involves a red Maserati. “We had a lady who dreamed of owning a red Maserati,” says Wier, a planner and field investigator in the San Antonio Water System’s Conservation Department and a veteran irrigation contractor.

3 weeks ago | irrigationandlighting.org | Jim Lauria

The irrigation industry is evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in technology, environmental sustainability and the growing complexity of client needs. Success in this field hinges not only on technological innovation but also on cultivating a skilled, motivated and forward-thinking workforce. Incorporating U.S. military veterans in your workforce can be instrumental in shaping a resilient, skilled team, and there are effective strategies to support integrating them into your crew.