By Mary Owen
Aumsville is Dave Mayo’s home away from home.
“I’m a kiwi,” said the 53-year-old plumber who hails from New Zealand. I’ve found myself in a place that not only reminds me of where I grew up, but also fits my life.”
Mayo said, “the geographic beauty and latitude of Oregon, let alone the populace and scenery of the Santiam Canyon” has captured his wife, Deb, and himself.
“We love it here!” he said.
The Mayos have owned property just outside of Stayton, close to Silver Falls Highway, since 2002. They enjoy the outdoors, whether hiking, sightseeing, kayaking, fishing or just snapping a photo of the countryside.
“These environments are worth preserving,” said Mayo, a former pipe-fitter who worked on underground utilities, water and sewer mains, storm drains and electrical conduits.
Mayo became a professional plumber in 1987, a “natural progression” that led him to open his own business, he said.
“Being a plumber makes me responsible not only to my customers but also for the impact that my services create,” he said of his penchant to save the Santiam Canyon’s environmental resources for future generations.
To do his part, Mayo officially launched Great Rate Plumbing in February, providing a special niche of service with products that save water and encourage efficiency. His WaterSense products, approved by the Environmental Protection Agency, end up saving homeowners money while protecting the area’s water supply, he said.
“It’s a win-win for everyone,” Mayo said. “It makes sense to do what I can to save water or other resources, if for no other reason than for those who follow behind me – and who will need these natural means to survive.”
Mayo believes deciding to “go natural” is a personal decision, one that everyone should consider.
“I think we should educate ourselves about it to the best we can,” he said “And by using the considerable resources available, people can decide whether to help or not.”
Mayo brings his interest and expertise to every job, from fixing a leaking faucet to replacing a toilet, installing a water heater, or upgrading a kitchen sink.
“Basically my service is here for those that may need a little plumbing support,” said Mayo, who is licensed, bonded and insured. He also does building, remodeling and handyman-type jobs from Salem to Idanha and surrounding areas.
Great Rate Plumbing is a member of the North Santiam and Stayton-Sublimity chambers of commerce.
