The City of Arlington’s Public Works Department, through its Stormwater Management Division, is extending an invitation to local schools and educators to participate in the Stormtalker Education Program. This initiative aims to educate students about the vital issue of stormwater pollution and its far-reaching impacts on water quality, local ecosystems, and flood risk management.
The Stormtalker Education Program is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of stormwater pollution, covering essential topics such as watersheds, storm drainage systems, and the role of natural floodplains. The program also delves into flood safety, awareness, and the importance of protecting native pollinators and aquatic habitats. By participating, students gain an understanding of how pollution affects their local environment and what measures can be taken to prevent it.
Program Highlights and TEKS Standards Alignment
The program provides presentations that align with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards, particularly in biology and social studies. With a focus on ecosystem vocabulary and natural processes, the content is designed to support classroom instruction while raising awareness of environmental stewardship. Students will learn how human activities influence local water quality and ecosystems and explore ways to mitigate negative impacts.
Key topics of the program include:
- Stormwater Pollution and Prevention
- Watersheds and Floodplain Functions
- Storm Drainage Systems and Local Water Quality
- Flood Safety and Awareness
- Habitat Protection for Native Pollinators and Aquatic Life
The program offers a variety of engaging presentations, each catering to different aspects of environmental education:
- All the Way to the Ocean
- Journey Through the Storm Drain
- Bugs Don’t Bother Me!
- We All Live in a Watershed
- Be Flood Prepared!
- Arlington’s Native Bees and Other Pollinators
These presentations are tailored to spark curiosity among students while imparting essential knowledge on how everyday actions can protect natural resources and reduce pollution in Arlington’s water systems.
Getting Involved
Educators interested in scheduling a Stormtalker Education Program presentation are encouraged to contact Melissa Walker, the City’s Stormwater Education Specialist, at 817-459-6572 or via email at [email protected]. More details about the program and its presentations can be found by visiting the Stormtalker Education Program webpage.
By participating in this program, schools have the opportunity to not only enhance their curriculum but also contribute to creating environmentally conscious students who are aware of the impact they have on their local environment and are equipped with the knowledge to make positive changes.
The City of Arlington looks forward to working with educators and students to foster a greater understanding of stormwater pollution, ecosystem protection, and flood safety.
