Rain Bird Unveils Float Plans

Rain Bird Corporation is already making preparations for its eighth consecutive Rose Parade entry. The manufacturer of irrigation products and services officially unveiled a color rendering of its 2004 Tournament of Roses Parade float entry, titled “Springtime Symphony,” in a recent ceremony at the company’s Glendora, Calif., headquarters.

The symbolic title, reflecting the arrival of spring, will depict new life rising above the winter snow to expose the brilliant colors and textures of the Southwestern landscape. And true to the Rain Bird vision for “The Intelligent Use of Water,” the float will include more than 1,500 gallons of cascading water.

The in-progress float will also feature a family of newly hatched endangered Spotted Owl chicks, perched atop an oversized conifer tree within the protective reach of their parents. Not far from the speckled group, a red-crested Pileated Woodpecker will be seen drilling for food as energetic chipmunks search tirelessly for their next meal. The float’s front will feature an Ocelet Cub exploring its flowering playground.

“This year we are excited to be celebrating the symphonic rituals of the magnificent species that inhabit the walls of the Grand Canyon – nature’s very own springtime symphony,” described Art Ludwick, senior vice president, Rain Bird. “Like many of us here in the United States, these great species depend on the incredible water and natural resources of the Colorado river for life. The continued depletion of this once-great water source presents a threat to the existence of all species.”

With its past seven floats, Rain Bird has used a variety of creative mediums and themes to carry its message of water conservation.

“In each case, it has been our focus to bring awareness to the central and important role that water plays in sustaining the vitality of each environment and its inhabitants,” Ludwick explained. And this year’s entry is no exception.

“Like music, our company’s commitment to using water wisely and preserving the environment is something that everyone can understand, regardless of culture,” he added.

The industry manufacturer intends to bring animal enthusiasts Jack Hanna and Walter Crawford, Jr., back this year as float riders.

“On the heels of three straight Sweepstakes Trophies, keeping our Rose Parade team in tact is of utmost importance,” Ludwick observed. “We attribute our success to the dedication of Rain Bird employees and the tireless work of Jack Hanna and Walt Crawford.”

Before unveiling plans for its 2004 float, Rain Bird received the 2003 Tournament of Roses Sweepstakes Trophy, awarded to the parade’s most beautiful float.

The author is Assistant Editor-Internet of Lawn & Landscape magazine and can be reached at aanderson@lawnandlandscape.com.