Mayor Ron Case is challenging Eden Prairie residents to conserve water, energy and natural resources by participating in the National Mayor's Challenge for Water Conservation, according to a news release from the city.

This free online contest is a friendly competition between cities across the nation to see who can be the most "water-wise," the release says

Throughout April, Case is asking residents to pledge online at mywaterpledge.com on behalf of Eden Prairie and promise to follow a series of conservation measures for their homes, yards and cars, such as washing only full loads of laundry, fixing leaky faucets and walking or biking short distances.

"As a leader committed to the efficient use of our natural resources, I'm honored to continue the city's tradition of participating in this annual challenge," Case said in the release. "It encourages residents to make decisions every day that may seem small, but collectively contribute to the sustainability of our community."

Eden Prairie will compete in the Midwest region against other cities with similar populations (30,000-99,000). Cities with the highest percentage of residents who take the challenge in their population categories are entered into drawings for hundreds of eco-friendly prizes, including home improvement gift cards, home irrigation equipment, and residents can nominate a charitable organization to win a 2019 Toyota hybrid car.

Ideas for what residents can do to conserve natural resources are available on the mywaterpledge.com website and in the Living Green section of the city's website, edenprairie.org/livinggreen. To learn more about Eden Prairie's Water Conservation Rebate Programs, visit edenprairie.org/waterrebates.