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Celebration of EPA's Wetlands Month to Include Students, Watershed Association

Release Date: 05/03/2012
Contact Information: Kris Lancaster, 913-551-7557, [email protected]

Environmental News

NEWS MEDIA ADVISORY

(Kansas City, Kan., May 3, 2012) - EPA Region 7 staff, St. Regis Catholic School students and Blue River Watershed Association staff will participate in an outdoor classroom wetland event May 8 at Swope Park in Kansas City, Mo.

During the event, EPA scientists will teach students about the importance of wetlands to the environment. Students will conduct wetland monitoring, remove invasive species and identify native species found in wetlands.

Swope Park is a 1,800-acre wooded park that houses the Kansas City Zoo, Starlight Theatre, Blue River Golf Course, Swope Memorial Golf Course, a Disc Golf Course, Swope Park Pool, picnic areas and a pond for fishing. Additionally, the Blue River winds through the park.

WHAT: EPA Region 7 environmental scientists teaching St. Regis Catholic School students about the benefits of wetlands and identification of native species

WHEN: 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., May 8, 2012

WHERE: Swope Park, 5600 E. Gregory Boulevard, Kansas City, Mo. 64132 (Intersection of Oldham Road and Gregory Boulevard)

WHO: EPA Region 7 Administrator Karl Brooks, EPA Region 7 environmental scientists, St. Regis Catholic School students and Blue River Watershed Association staff

This month marks the 21^st anniversary of EPA’s American Wetlands Month. Throughout May, there will be a number of events scheduled across the country to educate, involve and engage Americans who want to better understand the value of wetlands. Wetlands provide critical habitat for plants, fish and wildlife; replenish and clean water supplies; provide recreational opportunities; and serve as sites for scientific research and education.