Water Worx Stormwater Education Program

Educating and engaging youth on the stormwater challenge

As part of the Willert Park Green Infrastructure project, the Buffalo Sewer Authority wished to provide a greater community outreach program, designed for neighborhood youth in particular, with the intent of engaging and educating the neighborhood about the project happening along William Street and at both the Pratt Willert Community Center and the JFK Community Center.

Partnering with the Community Action Organization (CAO) of Western New York, Buffalo Sewer created a unique opportunity to connect with neighborhood youth from Kindergarten to 8th Grade. Consultants developed a detailed curriculum with individual lesson plans and activities in coordination with Buffalo Sewer and CAO leadership. Lessons included: the importance of water and local waterways; green infrastructure tools; soils and vegetation; how to plant a rain garden; and rain garden maintenance. Through exposure to key concepts in stormwater management and green infrastructure, children and young adults gain exposure to careers in the field. The program is designed to inspire the next generation of green infrastructure designers, installers and planners.