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Watershed Awareness
Watersheds filter, drain, transport, and collect water from a variety
of sources. Not sure of what a watershed is? It's actually pretty
easy to understand. When we talk about watersheds, we're talking about
much more than just water and the water cycle: we're talking about
the soil, the trees, the rocks, the grass and everything making up
our land. Watersheds are essentially everything that a droplet of
water touches or goes through in order to get back to a large body
of water, or to the ocean.
Throughout that journey a drop of water may come into contact with
a variety of obstacles and disasters. Pollutants created by humans
introduce some of the biggest disasters. Everyday car and laundry
detergents, motor oils, and agricultural pesticides are some very
common problems that water faces as it travels through a watershed.
We can make a huge impact on the health of our water, and on our watersheds
with some simple every-day tips. Things like keeping our cars in good
running condition, properly disposing of oils and household cleansers,
using natural fertilizers instead of pesticides on our gardens, and
even conserving the amount of water we use when brushing our teeth
or washing our cars — all have a positive impact on our watersheds.
May is a celebration for watersheds, and has been designated by Governor
Rendell as "Watershed Awareness Month" — and that means that
all across Pennsylvania individuals, volunteers, businesses, and students
will be taking part in some very exciting programs designed to celebrate
our watersheds as well as educate the public about their importance.
This year's theme is "Take a Walk in Your Watershed," and that's just
what people will be doing throughout the month of May!
If you haven't already done so, be sure to contact the watershed association
in your area to find out about events in your community. Events like
streamside clean ups, watershed festivals, watershed races, educational
programs, and much more are being held for children and adults —
to learn about their local environment.
Not sure how to get involved? Contact your local conservation district
office and ask for the watershed specialist on staff, they'll be able
to guide you to the events in your area. Another resource for watershed
information, stories, projects and educational resources is the Watersheds.tv
website. It's a weekly program of watershed events across Pennsylvania,
so be sure to check it out at: www.Watersheds.tv.
Remember, everyone lives in a watershed, so why not take a walk in yours!
 Become
a
Watershed Watcher Now!
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