On October 11, 2024, the Rotary Club of Barrie, together with the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) and Georgian Bay Forever, organised an impactful day of water-quality education for over 100 Grade 5 students at Ardagh Bluffs Public School. This event aimed to teach students about water conservation and environmental stewardship in a fun, interactive way.
The day kicked off with hands-on learning activities. Students examined the issue of microplastics and bioaccumulation, using microscopes to sift through soil for plastic fragments and learning about the harmful effects of pollutants on ecosystems. With the help of an NVCA educator, they explored how human activities impact local watersheds through the use of an “Enviroscape” model. This engaging exercise demonstrated how pollution can travel from urban environments into waterways and what steps can be taken to reduce these effects.
To further promote environmental responsibility, students partnered with the Rotary Club and Georgian Bay Forever to paint storm drains around the school with yellow fish and the message “Rain Only.” This public awareness activity highlighted the fact that stormwater flows untreated into natural waterways, reinforcing the need to keep oils, chemicals, and garbage out of our drains. Students also distributed flyers to nearby homes to spread the message within the community.
The day, initiated by Rotary’s David McCullough and funded by Georgian Bay Forever, was a great success. As a thank-you for their efforts, students enjoyed a pizza lunch provided by the Rotary Club. The club is proud to support programs that help educate and empower young people to take care of their environment and become the next generation of environmental stewards.