Waterwise Schools Program kicks off for 2025
Published on 27 March 2025
The Waterwise Schools Program is set to kick off again in 2025, offering students the opportunity to learn about the water cycle, the origins of our water supply, the importance of water conservation, and how to keep our rivers clean.
The current program is part-funded by Bellingen Shire Council and delivered by Cascade Environmental Education Centre.
Waterwise Program Coordinator, Dr Lisa Siegel, believes the program has a real and lasting impact on student behavior.
“It’s amazing to see the enthusiasm in our young learners as they tackle complex environmental issues in fun and interactive ways,” Dr Siegel said. “Students conduct water audits, check for leaks and come up with strategies to save water.
“This translates into actions both at school and at home and sets up an important foundation of environmental stewardship and water conservation awareness in our young learners.”
This year students will also learn about the important link between water conservation and energy conservation. Producing clean drinking water requires significant amounts of electricity, and the Bellingen Water Treatment Plant, one of nearly 100 sites managed by Bellingen Shire Council, is the Shire’s top electricity-consuming site. This highlights the relationship between water use, energy consumption, and climate change.
Mayor Cr Steve Allan is proud that Council is able to offer this program to local schools.
“The Waterwise Schools Program is a great initiative that is available to all schools, both public and independent at no cost to the schools,” Mayor Cr. Allan said. “It is linked to curriculum frameworks across all major learning areas, promotes active citizenship and encourages community involvement.
“I strongly encourage all schools in our Shire to get involved and help to preserve our precious water resources.”
The Waterwise initiative has been running since 2007, working to increase water literacy in our communities. To get your school involved, contact Cascade Environmental Education Centre on 6657 4188.
