More than 1,000 area 4th Graders took part in the 2009 Big Sioux Water Festival in Bookings. The hope: that they all learn more about how to conserve water here in South Dakota.

These are some of the images from today's event held on the South Dakota State University campus. The kids could find hands-on activities and displays especially created for 4th graders. Project organizers Deb Springman says, "Most of our presentations suggest ways that these kids can help in conservation and protection of our water resources."
topics of the presentations include everything from fish, reptiles and other animals to wetlands, streams and groundwater.

They're aimed at giving kids a chance to learn about water-related issues that affect not only them, but all kinds of living organisms. This year's theme was "Wetland Wonders" and the hope is, the kids will share what they learned with others. Springman says, "It gives the kids information so they can go back and educate others, such as their friends or even adults."

This was the 17th year for the Big Sioux Water Festival.