EPA publishes WaterSense draft specification for spray sprinkler nozzles

With the draft published, Nathan Bowen of the Irrigation Association says the IA and other stakeholders will evaluate the proposal.
The draft proposes criteria that a spray sprinkler nozzle must meet in order to earn the WaterSense label.

The Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., published its WaterSense draft specification for spray sprinkler nozzles. 

The specification would establish the criteria for landscape irrigation spray sprinkler nozzles to earn a label under EPA’s WaterSense program. It applies to spray sprinkler nozzles as applicable under the American Society of Agricultural Biological Engineers/International Code Council 802 Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard. 

“The WaterSense label is an important tool that helps consumers make informed choices that conserve water,” Nathan Bowen, Irrigation Association advocacy and public affairs vice president, told Irrigation & Lighting in April 

The Irrigation Association published comments after the EPA published a notice of intent to develop the specification. 

Now, with the specification draft published, Bowen says the IA and other stakeholders will be evaluating the proposal. 

“We are committed to supporting the continuous improvement in our industry, especially with technology advancements and innovation to ensure the wise use of water,” says Bowen. “The WaterSense program plays an important role in spurring innovation and supporting conservation efforts in communities around the country. We look forward to engaging with EPA through this process.”   

He says the Irrigation Association will continue to advocate on behalf of the irrigation industry with EPA and others on the matter. 

As we evaluate the draft specification, we will be engaging with our members and the broader stakeholder community to ensure it is rooted in sound science, robust data and industry best practice,” he says. 

The effective date of the specification is still to be determined, according to the draft. 

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