Ag Commissioner, Lawmakers Honor Texas Water Smart Coalition

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AUSTIN, Tex. – Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples, along with the Texas Senate, on April 5, announced the passage of Senate Resolution 593 honoring the statewide impact and success of the Texas Water Smart coalition. This recognition also marks the one-year anniversary of the Texas Water Smart conservation initiative.

All Texans should take a serious look at their individual water habits,” Commissioner Staples said. “We all can make a difference in our water supply by adopting common-sense ways to conserve. I want to thank the nearly 130 legislators and 150 other Texas Water Smart coalition members who have committed themselves to educating Texans about the critical need for water conservation. I look forward to another successful year of this statewide public education initiative.”

Texas Water Smart, launched April 2, 2012, is a public-private partnership of nearly 300 businesses, associations, research organizations and state and local officials. Through a highly successful consumer education program, Texas Water Smart has raised awareness about water conservation by encouraging homeowners and businesses to adopt daily habits to curb wasteful water usage.

State Sen. Troy Fraser filed the Senate resolution in recognition of Texas Water Smart’s efforts to raise consumer awareness about water conservation and the coalition’s commitment toward relieving the state’s water crisis. State Rep. Allan Ritter filed a companion resolution in the Texas House of Representatives.

“I congratulate Texas Water Smart for building a statewide coalition dedicated to conserving our state’s most precious resource,” Sen. Fraser said. “It takes a partnership between state and local entities to help solve our water supply problems. Texans are resourceful and together we will find solutions to maintain our water supplies while also sustaining and growing our economy.”

The Lone Star State continues to attempt recovery from the historic 2011 drought, which depleted drinking water supplies, hurt businesses and cost the state $8.3 billion in agricultural losses. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, more than 88 percent of the state is experiencing some degree of drought conditions.

“We have a choice to make: Conserve water now or risk more job losses in the future,” Commissioner Staples said.

For more information about Texas Water Smart and daily water saving tips for homeowners and businesses, visit www.TexasWaterSmart.com.