South Platte Renew Hosted Community Open House Event
Showcasing Water Renewal Process
On June 6, South Platte Renew (SPR) opened its doors to the public for the first. The Community Open House was a free event that included educational stations, children’s activities, facility bus tours, “touch-a-truck” stations, free food and more.
“We opened our doors to the community so that residents could see the water renewal process first-hand and learn how we are protecting public health and the environment efficiently and effectively,” said Jenifer Doane, deputy director and manager of Communications and Business Services for SPR. “This event was a great opportunity for individuals of all ages to learn how we all can be stewards of the South Platte River.”
Over 140 community attendees explored and experienced the water renewal process by visiting the operations control room, maintenance shop and laboratory; taking bus tours of the plant site; and meeting with SPR staff. Ten interactive educational stations provided information about energy optimization, byproducts of the process such as biogas and biosolids, apprentice and internship programs, dry-land, no till farming, river stewardship through storm drain management, and water quality standards and regulations.
The event was packed with fun for kids of all ages. The Denver Zoo displayed animals common to riparian ecosystems, and kid’s crafts and activities kept the little ones busy in-between climbing into numerous trucks and answering water questions for an opportunity to dunk a staff member in the dunk tank.
“Who knew the local water renewal facility could be so interesting and fun? Said Englewood resident, Danielle Urban. “I learned so much about the water renewal process and everyone I talked to was knowledgeable and friendly.”
The Community Open House will be an annual event at the SPR. To learn more about the event, click here.
