The League of Women Voters Rochester Metropolitan Area

The program includes an interactive model ( see drawing to the left ) of a wetland that will demonstrate the functions and values of wetlands and the impact of human activities on the wetlands. The table-top model shows the role of wetlands, houses, lawns, trees, roads, buildings and a shopping mall. Sponges act as wetlands; water, powders and colored liquids are used to simulate mud, rainfall, and additives such as salt, fertilizers and pesticides. Children will be able to make changes to the environment and observe the impacts. The model demonstrates wetlands functions such as water holding and absorption capacities, flood reduction, erosion control, sediment trapping and filtering, and wild life habitat.

A 12 minute slide show presenting local wetlands, state and federal regulations is also available; use of the slide show is optional since it will appeal more to older children and adults.

This presentation is primarily designed for children in primary grades and the presentation is made by members of the League of Women Voters.

Members of the Natural Resources Committee of the League assist children in demonstrating the effects of "runoff" on the environment.

For additional information or to make arrangements for a presentation of the Wetland Education Program, please e-mail Joyce Pearson or call the League of Women Voters at (716) 262-3730.

This program was made possible by a grant from the League of Women Voters Education Fund, and the US Environmental Protection Agency. Slideshow courtesy of the Monroe County Environmental Management Council, Kodak and RG&E.

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