| Illinois EPA added a large new exhibit on air
pollution, featuring a variety of alternate fuel vehicles, in the Farm Expo section of the
1997 Illinois State Fair in August, in addition to exhibits in Conservation World and in
the Governor's Tent. Solar-powered racecars, ethanol and natural-gas fueled vehicles,
electric cars and a hybrid electric-ethanol vehicle drew fairgoers. The fleet of
alternate-fuel vehicles was the centerpiece of a Bureau of Air exhibit that also included
videos, a computer terminal and other materials to inform the public on efforts by the
Agency and its partners to combat air pollution, particularly ground-level ozone (smog).
The Bureau of Water was this year's host at the traditional space in Conservation
World.
At the Conservation World exhibit, fairgoers tested their knowledge of the importance
of water and tried for prizes by playing the "Wheel of Water" game. Aquatic
tanks let visitors get up close and sort of personal by inspecting -- and even handling --
interesting water creatures such as crayfish and leeches. Other exhibits and models
provided information on drinking water, watersheds, and wastewater treatment.
Youngsters colored water-oriented drawings that were put on display at the Agency's
exhibit.
For those unable to attend the Illinois State Fair in Springfield, the Illinois EPA
will host a similar display at the DuQuoin State Fair in southern Illinois, Aug. 23 to
Sept. 1.
The Agency also participated again this year in the Governor's Tent. The Office of
Pollution Prevention was responsible for that exhibit, providing helpful tips on how
individuals can reduce pollution. |
Earth Stewardship Day Event Targeted Fourth Graders
Yearly event promotes environmental awareness
Staffers demonstrate how "Toxic Relay" works, during the 1997 Earth
Stewardship Day. |
Approximately 1,200 Sangamon County fourth grade
pupils attended the sixth annual Earth Stewardship Day held April 24, 1997, at the
Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. Sponsored by the Illinois EPA, and the Illinois
Departments of Natural Resources, Agriculture and Commerce and Community Affairs, the
event promotes environmental awareness through hands-on, interactive sessions. Youngsters
attending represented 40 fourth grade classes.
More than 40 Illinois EPA personnel from the Bureaus of Air, Land, and Water,
Springfield Regional Office and the Associate Director's Office presented 14 of the 72
programs conducted by volunteers from state and local government agencies and private
groups from throughout Illinois.
Since April 24 was also "Take Our Daughters to Work Day," several of the
Illinois EPA volunteers were accompanied by their daughters, some of whom also helped out
with presentations. |
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