GRAND ISLAND, Nebraska – 800 fifth-grade students representing 23 schools from across Nebraska gathered in Grand Island on Tuesday, May 12, for the annual Nebraska Children’s Groundwater Festival hosted by the Central Platte Natural Resources District (NRD) at Central Community College and College Park.

The free educational event brought students together for a day of hands-on learning focused on Nebraska’s groundwater resources and the importance of conservation. Because most Nebraskans rely on groundwater for drinking water and agriculture, teaching students about water protection is a key focus of the Festival.

Students rotated through six in-depth learning sessions led by natural resource professionals, educators, agencies, universities, nonprofits, and volunteers from across the state. Activities explored topics including groundwater, watersheds, agriculture, wildlife, weather, conservation, water quality, recycling, and pollution prevention.

Popular activities included groundwater models, stormwater pollution demonstrations, soil infiltration experiments, weather games, geology activities, and water quality testing. The Festival’s interactive format allows students to actively participate while learning how their daily actions can impact Nebraska’s water resources.

The Festival was made possible through the dedication of presenters and volunteers who assisted with classroom activities, registration, lunch service, guiding school groups, and event coordination throughout the day.

“The Nebraska Children’s Groundwater Festival gives students the opportunity to experience science and natural resources in a fun and meaningful way,” said Marcia Lee, Central Platte NRD Information/Education Specialist. “The enthusiasm of our presenters and volunteers helps students understand how important groundwater is to their everyday lives and inspires them to become good stewards of our natural resources.”

Established in 1988, the Nebraska Children’s Groundwater Festival was the first statewide groundwater festival in the nation. Since its beginning, more than 33,000 students have attended the event. The Festival’s successful educational model has since been replicated in 42 states and several countries including Mexico, Canada, India, and the United Kingdom.

Central Platte NRD thanks the many schools, presenters, volunteers, sponsors, and partners who helped make this year’s Festival a success.