Waterfest 2011
WaterFest 2011 is a Success!
WaterFest 2011 was a fun, educational event for all who attended. Despite torrential rain the day before, more than 2500 participants and visitors enjoyed a beautiful spring day while learning about the importance of water quality in the Ross Barnett Reservoir and what they can do to protect it.
This year’s event featured exhibits from many new organizations and participants. Representatives from the Weyerhaeuser Company showed children and adults how to make recycled paper. The MS Army National Guard showcased a helicopter in which children could climb and have photos taken. MS Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) displayed a skimmer boat used in the Gulf Oil Spill while the MS Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks presented an air boat for the public to see. Also, the Jackson Zoo, the MS Museum of Natural Science, and the National Park Service brought animals and artifacts native to the Reservoir watershed. Other exhibitors included the MS Beef Council, Ducks Unlimited as well as the MS Children’s Museum.
The United States Geological Service (USGS) dedicated their new research vessel, used on the Mississippi River, to a former USGS and MDEQ employee, Earnest T. Boswell. Mr. Boswell’s family and friends were present to tell about his work and dedication to the State of Mississippi as a hydrologist.
WaterFest 2011 featured local music and artwork. The main stage featured Sherman Lee Dillon and the Dillonaires and the Dixie Nationals. Students made posters using the theme “Every Litter Bit Hurts” to educate about litter prevention at the Reservoir. Winners of the poster contest for local 4-6 grade students were announced. Student winners received cash prizes and will have their posters displayed on the MDEQ website at www.deq.state.ms.us. The day was fun and educating for the entire family. We are already looking forward to WaterFest 2012. If you or your organization is interested in participating in the 2012 event, please contact Dr. Donetta Weatherspoon- McCullum at Donetta_McCullum@deq.state.ms.us.
Meet Mr. Whiskers!
Mr. Whiskers has been schooling around for quite some time! He is very wise and knows all about his home, the Reservoir.
He loves sharing his stories and helping you see what his home means to so many different people, plants and animals. Watch for Mr. Whiskers to make a splash at many schools and events coming up. Be sure to say a hearty “Glub Glub” when you see him! (That’s catfish for “howdy”!)
