Kempsey Shire Council's innovative water sustainability program continues to pave the way for students across the Macleay Valley to receive a practical education on the importance of water conservation and preservation.
Over 15 schools in the Shire have joined Council's Waterwise Schools Program which encourages students to use water responsibly and sustainably.
Students at Kempsey Adventist School were recently presented with the very first Waterwise Trophy for completing their refresher course delivered in partnership with Council by educators from the Cascade Environmental Education Centre. It highlights information on local catchments, water use, water conservation and human impacts on waterways.
Kempsey Shire Council Coordinator Water & Sewer Operations, John Nelson, said Council's Waterwise Program is a great way to introduced students to everyday practices that help them and their families make sustainable decisions.
"Waterwise is a great initiative to incorporate into the classroom because it helps to improve students' understanding on water conservation and preservation," said Mr Nelson.
"From here teachers can plan follow up lessons to build on aspects the children have explored during their Waterwise lessons such as watering the garden at certain times of the day and how different fittings in bathrooms can help conserve water."
Kempsey Adventist School was officially accredited as a Waterwise school in 2009 and since then has completed two refresher programs to maintain their accreditation, most recently in June 2021.
Waterwise Trophies will be presented in coming months to schools across the shire that are keeping up their water conservation education.
Water is a precious resource and Council's Waterwise Schools Program aims to educate students and their families on sustainable water usage habits. The program includes free education resources, free professional development for teachers and free education training.
