The Oldman Watershed Council would like to congratulate the students who participated in the 2019 Caring for our Watersheds contest - especially those who won cash prizes for themselves and their school!
Last winter, OWC’s student intern, Anique, delivered six free presentations to approximately 200 students and teachers in our watershed. After learning about the watershed where they live, students were left to ponder the question, “What can you do to improve your watershed?”
Rising to the challenge, students from Cardston Junior High and Carmangay Outreach School researched local issues and submitted over 50 project proposals to the contest.
Proposals are scored on innovation, budget, having realistic solutions, and environmental impact. Students in the Oldman watershed did not disappoint - we’re naturally innovative and thrifty here in southern Alberta! Many students recognized the interconnectedness of environmental and social issues (e.g. water scarcity) and proposed integrated solutions that addressed both.
Last year’s creative ideas included:
Capturing and reusing yard runoff
Tree planting in rural communities
Diverting food waste from landfills, promoting composting, and changing shopping habits
Making and promoting the use of rain barrels
Discouraging littering
Making homemade laundry detergent
Distributing reusable bags
Installing birdhouses
Planting water-wise native vegetation
Installing solar powered water pumps
Building a settling pond to filter stormwater
Creating interpretive signage for a local creek
Congratulations to the 2019 Caring for our Watersheds - Southern Alberta finalists! Photo: Caring for Our Watersheds.
Finalists were invited to present their project to a panel of judges in Calgary, with cash prizes awarded to the top 10 proposals. Last year, one group from Cardston Junior High won third prize, and another received an honourable mention - way to go!
Teachers: This program is inquiry-based and connected to the curriculum, and winners’ schools receive matching cash prizes! There is also implementation funding available for students to carry out their projects. Contact OWC’s Education Program Manager if you are interested in a free classroom presentation about the watershed and having your students participate in the 2019-20 Caring for our Watersheds program.
