Sprinkler features a temperature sensor with an integrated solar shield and a unique “tipping rain bucket” for instantaneous rainfall measurement
AZUSA CA, USA –BUSINESS WIRE)–Rain Bird Corporation has announced the launch of the Rain Bird Smart Sprinkler Summer Sweepstakes  celebrating the arrival of summer and the launch of its newest smart irrigation controller.

One lucky homeowner will win the grand prize (up to $5,000 approximate retail value) of a water-efficient, weather-based irrigation system, including a custom design plan, a new Rain Bird® ESP-SMT Smart Controller, all required sprinkler products, and installation by a professional contractor.

The first prize (up to $1,000 approximate retail value) includes a new Rain Bird® ESP-SMT Smart Controller and a $500 gift certificate to the Rain Bird Online Store . Ten second prizes will also be given away consisting of a helpful irrigation and lawn sprinkler how-to DVD. Entries must be received by 11:59:59 PM PT on July 15, 2009.

Enter online at www.rainbird.com/sweepstakes.

“With much of the country facing water restrictions and drought, it is more important than ever to use water responsibly, effectively and efficiently,” said Alex Nathanson, Corporate Marketing Brand Manager for Rain Bird. “Technology innovations like the new Rain Bird ESP-SMT Smart Control System help homeowners keep their yards beautiful and healthy while using 30-70% less water.”

Commonly used at commercial sites and golf courses, the cost and complexity of smart irrigation technology has made it impractical for most residential applications—until now. The ESP-SMT consists of two key components—a controller chassis with an integrated “smart” panel and an on-site weather sensor.

The on-site weather sensor features a temperature sensor with an integrated solar shield and a unique “tipping rain bucket” for instantaneous rainfall measurement.

After installation and set-up, the ESP-SMT uses temperature and rainfall data from its weather sensor to calculate the site’s evapotranspiration (ET) rate each day. The ESP-SMT then deducts effective rainfall amounts to determine how much water is needed to maintain the optimum level of moisture in the soil.

After it examines the unique characteristics of each zone (e.g. sprinkler type, sun exposure, slope and plantings), the ESP-SMT intelligently adjusts the watering schedule to automatically apply more or less water as needed.

The ESP-SMT promotes lush, healthy plant material while substantially reducing water waste and run-off.

Sweepstakes Deadline & Eligibility

The deadline for entries is midnight on July 15, 2009. Winners will be selected by random drawing and announced on or about July 20, 2009. The sweepstakes is only open to legal residents of the 50 United States and District of Columbia, who are 18 years of age or older (or 19 years of age or older for residents of AL and NE) as of June 15, 2009.

Official sweepstakes rules are available by visiting  www.rainbird.com/sweepstakes/officialrules.htm.

ABOUT RAIN BIRD CORPORATION

Based in Azusa, CA, Rain Bird Corporation is the leading manufacturer and provider of irrigation products and services. Since its beginnings in 1933, Rain Bird has offered the industry’s broadest range of irrigation products for farms, golf courses, sports arenas, commercial developments and homes in more than 130 countries around the world. Rain Bird has been awarded more than 130 patents, including the first in 1935 for the impact sprinkler. Rain Bird and The Intelligent Use of Water™ is about using water wisely. Its commitment extends beyond products to education, training and services for the industry and the community.

Rain Bird maintains state-of-the-art manufacturing assembly facilities in the United States, France, Sweden and Mexico. www.rainbird.com.

The Rain Bird Store is on the Web at: store.rainbird.com.