MASON - Since 2004, the city of Mason has been working through the Michigan Wellhead Protection Program, a federal program aimed at protecting drinking water within local communities.
Although this program is voluntary, communities that participate take the necessary steps to safeguard their drinking water sources from contaminants.
Among the many facets of the program, the city had to implement public education activities. The city worked with the Michigan Rural Water Association (MRWA) to apply for grant funding through the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ). A portion of the grant was dedicated to educating students in Mason.
On March 31, Kelly Hon, MRWA source water protection specialist, and Ken Baker and Tom Silsby, both of the city of Mason, did just that.
Second-grade students from Steele and North Aurelius elementary schools saw a groundwater model demonstration, and then built edible aquifers.
Through the groundwater model, students had the opportunity to see what life looks like underground and witnessed what happens when a drinking water well becomes contaminated.
The model shows students how contamination would move through the groundwater cycle and discussed what could potentially be impacted.
They also brainstormed on ways to prevent contamination from occurring.
Afterwards, students had the chance to build edible aquifers using a variety of oodies. Oreos were used to represent dirt and gravels, ice cream was used as clay, clear soda acted as water, sprinkles were used for the top soil, food coloring represented contamination and a straw was used for the well.
Students eagerly asked questions and were especially excited when the ice cream arrived.
The city is organizing a drinking water protection T-shirt design contest with Mason fifth-grade students. Cash prizes will be awarded and all students who participate will receive a T-shirt.
For more information about the Mason Wellhead Protection Program or to get involved, contact Baker at (517) 676-1319 or Kenb@mason.mi.us.
- From the city of Mason
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