Summer 2008 Water Conservation Challenge Is Issued To Americans at Washington DC Rally

For Immediate Release:
May 1, 2008

For More Information:
Charlotte Perham
(800)533-7694
perham@naphcc.org

Washington DC --- “If every American becomes more aware of how they can save water, it will go a long way towards conserving our nation’s most precious resource,” according to Jim Finley, president of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—National Association (PHCC).   At a rally today at Senate Park next to the U.S. Capitol, Finley challenged Americans to commit to specific water conservation measures this summer.   Finley was joined by more than 150 members of PHCC as part of National Plumbing Industry Week.

“Water conservation is a national issue affecting each American and with the effort of both adults and children, we can make a big difference.   If each American makes one modification, we can save millions of gallons of water this summer,” Finley said.  “In addition to conservation, it will save Americans money during these slow economic times.”

This water conservation initiative developed by the PHCC membership is an effort to increase public awareness of the importance of water conservation and the negative consequences of water shortages when they occur.  This is especially timely in lieu of last summer’s drought which affected various regions of the country.  A proactive water conservation program can help lessen the impact of any potential droughts and other water shortage situations that could occur this summer.

Congressman Lynn Westmoreland (R-GA) joined the rally to speak first-hand about the effects of last summer’s drought on the state of Georgia.  He called upon Americans to embrace the water conservation issue and make a personal commitment to participate.  Others participating were EPA’s Assistant Administrator for Water, Ben Grumbles, and representatives from the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters, the American Supply Association and the International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials.
 
As part of PHCC’s 125th year anniversary outreach efforts, participating members will be offering free water audits  to homeowners in their local communities along with a free water conservation checklist.  According to Jim Finley, “Our industry is committed to water conservation and energy efficiency.  A participating professional plumbing contractor can do a home water audit to identify problem areas that could be improved, and at the same time draw attention to the importance of water conservation.” 

The free water audits will be available to homeowners from June 1 through Aug. 31, 2008.   Those interested in finding the closest contractor offering a free water audit and/or obtaining a copy of the water conservation checklist should call (800)533-7694, or visit the Web site at www.phccweb.org.
Since 1883, members of PHCC have served a vital role in safeguarding the health, safety and comfort of society and protecting the environment. There are more than 4,100 PHCC professional business owners nationwide who employ more than 85,000 trained technicians.

For group photo, click here.