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Santa Fe organization recognized as a 2008 Water Efficiency Leader

Release Date: 12/16/2008
Contact Information: Dave Bary or Tressa Tillman at 214-665-2200 or [email protected]

Homewise, Inc. helped more than 500 households reduce water usage by more than 60%

(Dallas, Texas – December 16, 2008) The Environmental Protection Agency recognized the Santa Fe-based organization Homewise, Inc., as a 2008 Water Efficiency Leader today for helping 595 New Mexico homeowners reduce water usage by an estimated 64 percent. The organization reduced water consumption by implementing its Watersmart Program, which combines consumer information and lending, on-site installation assistance, and marketing.

“EPA commends Homewise for its accomplishments in water use reduction and environmental stewardship,” said EPA Regional Administrator Richard E. Greene. “Homewise represents New Mexico’s commitment to improve the quality of life through innovative business practices and water conservation.”

Originally founded in 1986 as the Neighborhood Housing Services of Santa Fe, Homewise helped more than 1,200 people purchase homes and has helped more than 600 people keep their homes by providing financial and technical assistance for home repair. In addition, Homewise has trained and counseled more than 3,000 people toward successful homeownership and has built more than 150 affordable homes.

Since 2006, EPA has been recognizing organizations and individuals with Water Efficiency Leader Awards to help foster a nationwide ethic of water efficiency. This program enables EPA to document best practices, share information, and create a network of water efficiency leaders.

Additional information about this year’s Water Efficiency Leaders is available at: https://www.epa.gov/water/wel/.

To learn more about activities in EPA Region 6, please visit https://www.epa.gov/region6.