DNREC News

Sept. 22, 2000
Vol. 30, No. 305

For more information, contact Nancy Rolli, 302-270-6230

Delaware Students Make a Splash with Project WET

Delaware Joins More than 50,000 Children around the Nation to Raise Awareness about the Importance of Protecting Water Resources

Today, more than 300 local students joined in a nationwide effort to raise awareness of the critical need for water education. The initiative involves simultaneous day-long water festivals in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and the Northern Mariana Islands. The events celebrated the role of water in our lives and will teach children about the science and history of water, one of our most important natural resources.

The national effort, "Make a Splash with Project WET," was organized by Project WET (Water Education for Teachers), an international, interdisciplinary, water science and education program for formal and non-formal educators of K-12 students, with support from The Perrier Group of America and its local Poland Springs brand.

The Delaware water festival was organized by Nancy Rolli and Lee Jennings of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and took place at Fort Delaware State Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Delaware students participated in creative interactive series of activities designed around solving the problems of water shortages and pollution during the year 1864 on Pea Patch Island. The setting incorporated the historic problems, which beset the military management of this large POW facility, and the modern problems and issues associated with the management of water resources.

"This is an unprecedented effort to raise awareness about the critical role that water plays in our everyday lives," said Project WET Executive Director Dennis Nelson. "The games and activities are fun for the children, but the topic is a serious and important one. Water is a precious resource, not only from a scientific or environmental standpoint, but also economically, culturally and historically. The water festivals expose children to this subject in a way that both complements and reinforces traditional classroom learning." All of the Make a Splash with Project WET water festivals taking place around the country today featured structured learning stations and exhibits where students actively engage in hands-on water activities and investigations.

The event coincides with the release of a children’s book, "Spring Waters, Gathering Places," authored by Project WET’s Sandra Chisholm DeYonge. Through stories and activities the book discusses the heritage, culture, science, and value of springs, and will be used as a teaching tool in local schools and at community events throughout the country.

"We’re proud to be representing Delaware in this effort," said Nancy Rolli, Project WET State Coordinator. "These children will one day be the stewards of our water resources. This event will help give them an appreciation for what that responsibility means, and just how important it is."

Through a nonbiased approach, Project WET promotes an awareness of and respect for water resources, which can encourage a personal, lifelong commitment of responsibility and positive community participation.

The Perrier Group of America, Inc., a national corporation that bottles natural spring water, was the primary sponsor and funding source for Delaware’s "Make a Splash" event. In addition to funding the event itself and providing on-site staff support to activities, Perrier supplied students and teachers with activity guides, journals and copies of the new children’s book.

The Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA), manager of the Delaware Memorial Bridge and the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, provided free transportation from Delaware City to Pea Patch Island for "Make A Splash" participants. (doc. no. 40-01/00/09/34)

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