2008 Student Conservation Fair

The 2008 Student Conservation Education Fair was more than a success... it was a triumph! Abundant sunshine and cooler temperatures greeted over 600 2nd and 3rd grade students as they arrived at the Union Fairgrounds on September 23rd for the 8th Annual Student Conservation Fair.

The purpose of the Conservation Fair is to expose Knox & Lincoln County elementary school age children to our natural resources; to educate students of the vital and extensive involvement natural resources play in each of our lives and to inspire them to become stewards of our earth, through hands-on activities presented by local experts.

Since it’s début in 2000, thousands of students have participated in this free, one-day event sponsored by the Knox-Lincoln Soil and Water Conservation District.

Unique educational experiences combined with the students’ natural curiosity about our environment provide the perfect environment to promote a greater awareness, understanding and comprehension of our natural resources. Presentations and on-going demonstrations throughout the day are dedicated to enhance the students’ knowledge about agriculture, soil and water quality, forestry and marine resources. A live owl presentation gave participants a unique educational experience that will last a lifetime.

Natalie Owre from Appleton Village School learned how to identify a carnivore, herbivore and an omnivore at the Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife “Skins and Skulls” demonstration booth.

The Marine Animals Touch Tank allowed students to get a closer look at sea urchins, crabs and sand dollars, just to name a few.

This year's feature presenter, Jackson Gillman entertained the students with a stand up comedy routine “Riot in the Garden” that was interactive, educational and entertaining

A Special Thank You

The Knox-Lincoln Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors and staff extend a tremendous thank you to area businesses and organizations in appreciation for their generous donations, contributions and assistance to help us create a memorable experience for everyone this year at the 2008 Student Conservation Fair.

In addition to our monetary and merchandise contributors, we want to acknowledge that our programs would not take place without the dedication and support from our volunteers who contribute their time and expertise to help out at the office with clerical work and phone calls or out in the field assisting with preparations, hard work and planning. Their enthusiasm and support helped make the 2008 Conservation Fair a reality.