Water is life. It nourishes our bodies, sustains ecosystems, and is certainly the foundation of Peterborough’s history, yet many take it for granted.
Locally, GreenUP has been at the forefront of water education for decades, empowering children, educators, and families to act as water champions — in their homes, schools, and communities.
Investing in water education has never been more critical. In the face of growing environmental challenges, programs like the Peterborough Children’s Water Festival (PCWF) offer a shining example of how experiential learning can inspire the next generation of environmental leaders.
The PCWF is an annual event that combines education, fun, and hands-on learning to teach children about the importance of water in their lives.
“It was such a wonderful experience for my students,” said Kristin Manol, an educator with the Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland and Clarington Catholic School Board. “Each activity was meaningful and engaging enough that it captivated the attention of grade fives.”
This coming year, more than 1,400 students in grades two to five, 75 high school students, and 300 adult educators and chaperones from across our region will gather on the banks of the Odenabe (Otonabee River) in Nogojiwanong (Peterborough) at the Riverview Park & Zoo on May 27 and 28. There they will engage in activity centres that highlight the science, history, and cultural significance of water.
The festival’s interactive approach is what makes it so unique and impactful. Children don’t just learn about water; they experience it. They see, touch, test, and observe water in action, from understanding water conservation and pollutants to learning about ecosystems, watersheds, and the cultural teachings of Indigenous knowledge keepers.
“I have already noticed changes in (the students’) water usage in class,” said Merridyth Marshall, an educator with the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board, shortly after attending the PCWF in 2024 with her grade two students. “They are much more mindful about turning off the sink tap right away after washing their hands.”
For the past 22 years, the PCWF has been led by GreenUP, working in partnership with local educators, water quality specialists from Peterborough Utilities Group and the City of Peterborough, Otonabee Conservation, and other community groups to deliver a curriculum-linked program that is innovative and engaging.
By fostering this connection to water at a critical age, students develop not only an understanding of the environmental challenges we face, but also the skills and passion to make positive change. These are the young leaders who will advocate for clean rivers, steward our wetlands, and design the green technologies of tomorrow.
However, due to changing factors for longtime funders, the 23-year strong festival now needs the support of the community to continue this important and beloved event. Since the pandemic, funding opportunities have been scarce, making it difficult to deliver the PCWF at its full potential.
As a low-barrier event provided for free to local students, the festival relies heavily on community sponsors, grants, and donations. Without this financial support, it is becoming increasingly difficult to ensure that every child, regardless of economic background, has the opportunity to participate.
Access to water education is an equity issue. Programs like the PCWF ensure that all children have the same chance to build their environmental literacy, no matter their school or socioeconomic background.
For many students, this may be their first time experiencing outdoor experiential education or learning about their local water systems. These experiences are transformative — sparking curiosity, connection, and developing pathways for future careers.
Climate change and other interconnected environmental concerns like flooding and algae blooms are impacting communities everywhere. Water systems are under pressure, and the solutions to these challenges will require future generations to think critically, act collaboratively, and care deeply.
Water education is not an “extra” — it is essential. It equips youth with the skills to address these issues head-on, and it empowers them to take action in their homes and communities, from reducing water waste to protecting local water sources.
The PCWF Steering Committee is now calling on local businesses, organizations, and individuals for support. Investing in the festival is an investment in the future. These funds help to ensure that every child can access the education they deserve, while building a culture of water stewardship that benefits everyone.
A donation, sponsorship, or partnership can make a huge difference, ensuring the festival remains accessible to all. Every drop counts — whether a contribution of $500, $1,000, or more. All funds help the PCWF continue this important work and build capacity to sustain the work, inspiring thousands of young people for years to come.
“I was very impressed to see employees from RBC and Siemens there supporting the day,” noted Sarah Sullivan-Berardi, an educator with the Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland and Clarington Catholic School Board. “I think that demonstrates caring by those companies and humanizes them.”
At GreenUP, we believe in the power of education to create lasting change. Programs like the PCWF provide a wonderful example — when we invest in youth, we invest in a healthier, more sustainable community for all. Those that meaningfully support the Peterborough Children’s Water Festival help us to keep the future flowing.
For more information or to contribute to the 2025 Peterborough Children’s Water Festival happening May 27 to 28, 2025 at the Riverview Park & Zoo in Peterborough, visit pcwf.net.
