"Every Drop Counts" Campaign Launches in Port Washington

Residents Forward and the Village of Port Washington North engaged young environmental leaders and a host of partners in the Port Washington community to create the “Every Drop Counts” exhibit in Bay Walk Park to bolster awareness and action to preserve and protect the peninsula’s water source. The project effort between local advocacy groups, The Port Washington Water District, local artists and Port Washington students aimed at motivating residents to take simple actions that can improve the quality, resiliency and sustainability of their community’s only source of drinking water.

“Our children are our future; our environment is their future,” said Mindy Germain Executive Director of Residents Forward. Residents Forward is committed to reaching the youngest of our community members, helping to deepen their understanding of the environment and the role they can play in protecting it. “To that end this initiative was truly led by the students of our community who, after learning more about the threats to our drinking water, insisted we find a way to help residents protecting it. We are excited that this permanent exhibit will bring more awareness to all those who visit Bay Walk Park,” Germain added.

During the launch event, permanent educational exhibits designed by local artists Michelle Shain and Diane Luger were unveiled which focus on the various ways residents of all ages can learn about their water source and can contribute in efforts to make it more sustainable. One section educates park-goers about Long Island’s aquifer while the tops of the picnic table provide information on how residents can protect our water including: what to plant, lawn care tips, water conservation techniques and much more.

“Bay Walk Park officially opened to the community just over two years ago and its walkways, with the backdrop of the Manhasset Bay, have brought countless neighbors, friends and even strangers together,” said Port Washington North Mayor Bob Weitzner. “With the installation of this educational exhibit people will not only continue to be brought together by the Parks beauty but a common goal of protecting our drinking water.”

The ribbon cutting offered the elementary school students an opportunity to express what they learned through this two year process. Max Goldman, President of Schreiber High School’s Environmental Club, also stressed the importance of involving the youngest generation on environmental issues and developing an awareness of what is at stake if measures are not taken to protect the environment.

“The Port Washington Water District is a long-standing partner of the community and was proud to play a role in the development of this important project,” said Port Washington Water District Superintendent Tal Vachio. “We will continue to lead, and partner in, community initiatives centered around protecting the environment and raising awareness on the importance of doing so.”