Peachtree Creek is a typical urban stream that meanders through
Atlanta, Ga. It drains into the Chattahoochee River, which is a main
source of drinking water and recreation for the city. Urban streams
have their problems -- trash, construction debris, sewage, chemical
runoff from yards and industries, and residues from roads are washed
into them.
They are not a good place to explore and play in (yes, I confess... I did play in Peachtree Creek when I was a kid). But isn't exploring and playing just what young kids would like to do in a creek? Do you have any creeks near your home or school that seem sickly and under the weather?
Students in the Atlanta and Columbus, Ga. area formed The River Kids Network, which tests and cleans up local streams (wearing gloves and boots, of course). Is there an organization in your area that does similar work?
Here are some 3rd graders' observations during a recent creek cleanup: Not safe, even for bugs Just a little effort Had it up to here Out from under cover Signs of life are few What goes around ... |