The finalists for the 2009 Intelligent Use of Water Film Competition have just been announced, which means it’s time for you to check out some cleverly creative short films that help bring awareness to water conservation issues.

Sponsored by Rain Bird irrigation supplies, along with FilmL.A. and Questex Media Group, the festival brings together amateur and professional filmmakers to highlight the importance of preserving this precious resource.

While most of us are hopefully not as wasteful as some of the films’ protagonists, we could all certainly use some entertaining reminders about how to avoid wasting water. Having filmed my own water conservation tip on installing a low-flow shower head, I’m glad that there are others out there who have created films with a slightly more engaging storyline.  Check out some of the finalists after the jump.

The films range from the documentary-style of One Single Bucket:

One Single Bucket from Intelligent Use of Water Contest on Vimeo.

To the Terry Gilliam-esque absurdity of More or Less:

More or Less from Intelligent Use of Water Contest on Vimeo.

And I’m a big fan of Small Changes:

Small Changes from Intelligent Use of Water Contest on Vimeo.

The six finalists are invited to a special screening at The Getty Center in Los Angeles on September 23, where two winners will be announced and awarded cash prizes of $6,000 for the jury’s selection and $3,000 for the audience favorite. The evening will also feature the presentation of the first annual Green Industry Award, given to professionals who in addition to designing, installing and maintaining green spaces, are also aspiring filmmakers.

Be sure to check out all the finalists and use the action link below to find out what you can do to help conserve water.