Conservation open house draws more than 200 visitors

More than 200 community members gathered Tuesday evening, Aug. 25, for an open house at Hamilton County’s new Pleasant Street offices, getting a hands-on look at local conservation programs, environmental services, and the agencies serving Hamilton County residents.

The Aug. 25 event brought together the Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), Hamilton County Household Hazardous Waste, and Hamilton County Weights and Measures, along with community partners, elected officials, and families from across the county.

Visitors explored the new facilities while completing an event “passport” that encouraged them to stop at educational stations throughout the site. Activities introduced guests to topics including soil health, water quality, invasive species, native plants, household hazardous waste, conservation tools and other local programs and services.

The Soil Health Trailer was especially popular, giving visitors an interactive look below the surface at how soils function. Families also enjoyed hands-on activities throughout the evening, with Touch-a-Tractor and free snow cones among the biggest hits with younger guests.

“We knew the snow cones and tractors would bring people in, but what was really exciting was seeing families stay, ask questions and work their way through the educational stations,” Urban Conservationist Claire Lane said.

The open house also gave visitors an opportunity to see the SWCD’s new native landscaping, raised-bed gardens and Conservation Starts Here mural while learning more about the resources available to Hamilton County residents.

The Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District provides education, technical assistance and programs that help residents and communities conserve soil, water, and other natural resources. More information is available at hamiltonswcd.org.