A visit to a nature area probably doesn’t come to mind when you are planning your trip to the Indiana State Fair this year, but you’re in luck! The beautiful park-like Pathway to Water Quality exhibit (open every day of the Fair) has been a popular place to visit since 1993.
Managed by the Indiana Conservation Partnership, this interactive area located in the northeast corner between the Family Fun Park and the Speed Barns explains how soil and water play an important role in everyday life. The almost one-acre vista is a model watershed – showing how land “sheds” water or drains to surface water or groundwater and what we can do to protect water quality.
Where does all the water go after it rains? How does what people do on their land at home, on the farm and in the cities affect water and soil quality? There is something at this exhibit for everyone – whether you are a homeowner, farm or manage land, or own a business in a drinking water protection area. Here a few highlights you might want to check out on your visit!
- Kids Area: hands-on soil and water activities including pictures with water quality mascots
- Model home: showcases native plants, a pervious concrete driveway, rain garden and rain barrel.
- Green roof: see how this structure absorbs rainfall, provides insulation, and creates a habitat for wildlife.
- Farmland: learn how cover crops and other conservation practices help keep soil healthy and land productive
- Stream and shoreline protection: discover practices that keep banks from eroding
- Water Well Pump: enjoy a cup of cold water straight from the water well
Before you go: Download the Pathway to Water Quality Brochure
