The American lifestyle requires a great deal of water usage. It is estimated that each person uses an average of 124 gallons of water each day. This precious resource is not only used for drinking, cooking and cleaning but agricultural endeavors need a great deal of water. Typically, outdoor water use accounts for up to 50 percent of water consumed by households.
Most Americans live within a mile of a river or stream and everyone needs to do their part to protect this valuable natural resource. Healthy rivers give us clean drinking water, support habitats for fish and wildlife and provide endless recreational opportunities. Simple steps can help conserve water and save money too. Try turning off the water while brushing your teeth to save two gallons a minute. And fix leaky faucets – one drip per minute can waste up to 2,700 gallons a year. In your yard, use mulch to help retain ground moisture, and when you do water, early mornings and late evenings are the best times.Â
From rivers to tree roots to drinking water and beyond, clean water keeps the world flowing. Plow & Hearth has decided to raise awareness for American Rivers, the nation’s leading river conservation organization by launching the WaterColors contest.
To enter simply submit an artistic expression inspired by water and colors. These creations may be photos of rain barrels, water bottles or watering cans that have been painted. Anything that captures the spirit of Water Colors, including photos of the creative ways a particular garden has been planted, drawings of rivers, poems or stories about water. Plow & Hearth’s sustainability committee says “It’s the perfect opportunity to be creative, express yourself and support a great organization” by raising awareness.
Entries will be collected through September 30, 2012. Once the contest has ended, up to five finalists will be selected from all entries. The final selection will be placed on Plow & Hearth Facebook for bidding purposes for the 3 Grand Prize winners.
First Place
- $5,000 contribution to American Rivers on behalf of Plow & Hearth and the winner.
- $1,000 Plow & Hearth Gift Certificate
Second Place
- $3,000 contribution to American Rivers on behalf of Plow & Hearth and the winner.
- $500 Plow & Hearth Gift Certificate
Third Place
- $2,000 contribution to American Rivers on behalf of Plow & Hearth and the winner.
- $250 Plow & Hearth Gift Certificate
For complete rules and to see examples of beautiful painted rain barrels, visit www.plowandhearth.com/watercolors. Â
Plow & Hearth offers environmentally friendly and energy efficient products to help individuals reach their goals to support and contribute to the conservation of water and energy. Some of the environmentally friendly products sold at the original store in 1980 are still popular and just as efficient today. Products that promote sustainability and environmental awareness include composting products, non-invasive pest control, energy-saving insulated curtains and wood burning accessories. By offering products with practical, sustainable uses and eco-friendly attributes, Plow & Hearth encourages awareness and environmental responsibility.
This press release is presented without editing for your information. GRIT does not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase.