The District has a watershed model diorama that is demonstrated in conjunction with many of the school facility tours, in the classroom, and at environmental functions. Students see what happens when rainwater washes pollutants to creeks or the Bay or an illegal discharge from a business or factory. The model includes houses, roads, an industry, a farm, a construction site, a golf course, a partially logged forest, two creeks, and the "Napa River". Students identify potential pollution sources with the model, such as lawn fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides, illicit industrial discharges, working on vehicles or changing oil out in the street, and parking lot oil. The "pollution" is really cocoa and powdered drink mixes, used as a demonstration for the onlookers! After the pollution has been placed on the model, students observe what happens as a squirt bottle simulates rain on the watershed. The moment the "make-believe pollutants" hit the body of water, the observers always react with some degree of horrid disgust. Students learn about watersheds and urban storm water runoff, and methods to prevent pollution from reaching local water bodies. A focus on mercury is also discussed. Following the model-related activity, students are presented with alternative products for use in their homes.

A discussion ensues about why some products are better for the health of the Bay than others. This program is flexible to different educational levels, and is used in first grade through junior high classrooms. A demonstration of the diorama is also available in the classroom.

For more information, contact the Pollution Prevention Department at (707) 258-6000 at extension 502.