News Release 079

MEDIA ADVISORY:
SAEGER MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS TO SEE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION UP CLOSE DURING DEPARTMENT FIELD TRIP

Program includes visit to treatment plant, stream sampling

Volume 36-079

Contact: Larry Archer

(For immediate release)

573-751-3807

FEB. 19, 2008

WHO: An estimated 40 Saeger Middle School students.

WHAT: Touring a wastewater treatment plant and identifying aquatic macroinvertebrates in the classroom.

WHEN: Tour leaves from the middle school at shortly after 8 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 21.

WHERE: Ducket Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant, 3550 Highway K, O’Fallon;
We will then return to Saeger Middle School for identification of macroinvertebrate samples collected from Gravois Creek.

WHY: The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is sponsoring a series of field trips aimed at giving students a first-hand look at the type of work done by department employees. Tours include facilities that are regulated by the department, such as wastewater and drinking water plants, as well as sites where department employees work, such as water testing sites, state parks and the department’s environmental laboratory. The purpose of the program is to help students develop an appreciation for the environment and an interest in careers whose focus is environmental protection.

There is room on most tours for an education reporter and photographer. Arrangements can also be made for reporters and photographers to join the tour at specific tour locations. Field trip itineraries can change, so for information on joining the tour, please contact Larry Archer at 573-751-3807.

For news releases on the Web, visit www.dnr.mo.gov/newsrel. For a complete listing of the department's upcoming meetings, hearings and events, visit the department's online calendar at www.dnr.mo.gov/calendar/search.do.

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