Participate in the interactive series and brainstorm solutions to take care of our watershed!
Kaw River Paddle and Learn
Where: Kansas River When: September 17th 8am-2pm Join us for a fun and educational paddle from Lawrence to Eudora! We will visually observe/ learn about stream health, as well as analyze water samples for temperature, pH, and nitrates. We are excited to work with Friends of the Kaw and scientists: Heidi Mehl and Cynthia Annett on this interactive citizen-science initiative. Who knew water testing could be such a blast! No previous experience with floating, paddling, kayaking or water testing required. The event is free, but space is limited. Kayaks and canoes will be provided (option to bring your own). More event details will be provided once you RSVP.
Smart Lawn Care Workshop
Where: Lawrence Public Library When: October 3rd 5:30pm- 7:30pm Brad Fresenburg, Extension Turfgrass Specialist, will share basic cultural practices of home lawn care with homeowners. Weeds, diseases and insects in lawns usually result from mismanagement of lawns and lawn care products (fertilizers & pesticides) are not always the answer. Attendees will learn why pests exist and how to reduce their numbers. So always ask, “Why does a pest exist?” before the automatic reaction of trying to control it. Following good cultural practice with the proper use of lawn care products will lead to environmentally sound lawn care that protects water quality. Light dinner will be served. Must RSVP to attend.
What: Tour of the Kaw River Water Treatment Plant and the Kansas River Wastewater Treatment Plant
Where: Kaw River Water Treatment Plant and the Kansas River Wastewater Treatment Plant When: October 22nd 2:00pm- 4:00pm The tour will be led by Renée Whaley, state-certified water and wastewater operator. Every day millions of gallons of water are diverted from the Kaw River by the City of Lawrence only to be put back into the river. Ever wonder how this process works? Take a tour of the Kaw River Water Treatment Plant and see how murky river water is turned into clean and clear drinking water, then head over to the Kansas River Wastewater Treatment Plant and find out how wastewater is treated to minimize damage to the river environment. You'll gain a better understanding of drinking water treatment and how important it is to be aware of what goes down the drain. Come prepared to walk outside. Must RSVP to attend.
Tour of The City of Lawrence and Douglas County Household Hazardous Waste facility
Where: The City of Lawrence and Douglas County Household Hazardous Waste facility When: September 29th 3:00pm-4:30pm Household hazardous waste can be produced as a result of normal household activities. Common examples include: paints and varnishes, pesticides, solvents, fuels, automotive fluids, cleaners, photo chemicals, pool chemicals, batteries, medications and mercury-containing devices. Improper disposal to sanitary or storm water sewers may damage septic systems, sewage treatment plants, drinking water supplies, aquatic environments, corrode plumbing, or cause treatment plant sludge to be hazardous.
The tour will be lead by Tom Hogan, Waste Reduction & Recycling Specialist. During the tour attendees will learn about how The City of Lawrence and Douglas County Household Hazardous Waste Facility offers responsible disposal for household and qualifying small business hazardous waste in Douglas County. We will also discuss how hazardous waste may pose a threat to sanitation workers or public health and the environment when improperly handled or disposed. Household hazardous waste discarded with other trash may contaminate the air or groundwater, react or explode in waste compactors, or injure personnel handling these wastes. Must RSVP to attend.
The next steps: Turning Knowledge Into Action
Where: will be announced to those who RSVP When: October 27th 6:00pm-8:00pm This final event will combine the knowledge gained from the series to inspire attendees to take action towards solutions. Attendees will brainstorm innovative ways to preserve our water quality and discuss specific steps to reach that vision. This event is open to attendees who have participated in at least one of the Homes to Watershed Series. RSVP is required.
If you have questions, please contact Olga Khakova at [email protected]