In the Adirondacks it’s “Water, water, every where,” but thanks to the Greater Adirondack Resource Conservation and Development Council  we can forego the “not any drop to drink.”

Hamilton County is just one area in the Adirondacks making great strides in continuing to bring attention to the importance of water quality. Over 20 years ago Adirondack Waterfest was developed to provide water quality education by means of a fun, family-friendly event.

According to Elizabeth Mangle, District Manager for Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District, the event moves each year between the seven county regions. Since Adirondack Waterfest started in Hamilton County, it will once again take place there in celebration of its 20th year.

“We monitor 20 lakes in the county throughout the summer,” says Mangle. “We are in a pristine place and want to keep it that way. There is always room for more education. People bring in invasive species that can harm our lakes, without even knowing it. We are really the last area that is not affected. We are trying to do the best we can so people can come and enjoy this beautiful area.”

Adirondack Waterfest will take place this year on Friday, July 31 from 10 am – 4 pm at Village Park in Speculator. The event is free with numerous kids’ activities, airboat demonstration and live fish demos.

“Another neat thing we are going to have is the Stream Channel model,” says Mangle. “It is a great illustration on how streams work and rivers flow. The Bird of Prey talk will focus on the importance of good water quality. Though this event started 20 years ago, the concerns have changed. Ten years ago we had only some milfoil, but now we have more throughout the Adirondacks. We want to bring awareness and education in this event that celebrates water.”

The kids’ area will include a bounce house, water slide, craft tent and a passport game/scavenger hunt. The guided hikes will be along the handicap accessible Sacandaga pathway starting at the Fire House Pavilion. There will also be food, drink and music.

“People always want to find out what they can do to help,” says Mangle. “It is our job to continually bring awareness to Hamilton County and the rest of the Adirondacks. People can’t help if they don’t know. During Waterfest, it’s a chance to have fun while finding out how to preserve our beautiful waters.”

Illustration provided.