In partnership with Anne Beers Elementary School, the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water) provided students a hands-on learning experience about their water resources at the Children’s Water Drop Festival on Friday, May 11. Through this environmental education program, DC Water aims to engage students about various water-related topics and increase awareness of significant environmental issues affecting the health of our waterways.

Approximately 85 students in third through fifth grades took part in the free, outdoor environmental program. Students participated in numerous interactive games and activities, exploring and investigating their drinking water, the wastewater treatment process, water quality, and the Anacostia watershed. Joined by representatives from several environmental organizations and District agencies, DC Water staff facilitated hands-on environmental lessons and engaged students in related group discussions.

“This festival is a great way to engage and educate the next generation of environmentalists in a fun learning environment,” said DC Water General Manager George S. Hawkins. “When our young people can see first-hand how they are connected to and dependent on water in their daily lives, they will develop a greater appreciation for these resources. We look forward to future opportunities to work with more students of all ages across the District.”

Featured exhibits included water testing, simulated wastewater treatment system; a demonstration on how polluted water runoff affects our waterways; and a reenactment of the water cycle. In addition, students participated in recycling and water relays, toured the mobile water quality lab, and took group photos with DC Water’s mascot, Wendy the Water Drop. Students received souvenir t-shirts, activity books, pencils, and water bottles for participating.