Highlights, Elmvale Water Festival 2008

Carrying reusable water bottles filled with cold, local spring water, hundreds of visitors enjoyed the presentations, exhibits, music, and food at the 2008 Elmvale Water Festival. A hands-on children’s water education centre kept the kids busy, and the dunk tank allowed them to cool down afterwards. During the day we were fed by students from the Elmvale District High School as well as volunteers from the Wycliffe Anglican Church. Many stayed to enjoy the lasagna supper hosted by Pretto’s Pasta, and the event culminated in an evening dance expertly organised by the Junior Farmers..

The presentations included those by Mary Jane Conboy (Protecting Private Wells) and Lynn Dollin (The Provincial Source Water Protection Program). The keynote presentation in the early afternoon was delivered by Maude Barlow (Blue Covenant: The Global Water Crisis and the Coming Battle for the Right to Water) to a packed crowd, and this was followed by sales of her latest book (of the same title) and a book signing. In the afternoon, Robert Dell gave his presentation (Sustainable clean water for developing countries) followed by William Shotyk (Thirst for knowledge: facts to consider in selecting a reusable water bottle). The presentations and video clips will soon be available for downloading from our web page, extending the reach of our speakers worldwide.

The number of exhibitors grew and this year included the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority, Severn Sound Environmental Association, Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, Georgian College (GEAR), Ladies of the Lake, the Well Wise Centre, Ontario Federation of Agriculture, Ontario Ministry of the Environment, and Canadian Water Treatment Magazine.

Musical entertainment included Native Water Singing Bowls by O Puck and Jesse Canada, Life by the Drop (blues and rock), Katie Austin (folk), Karen Parnell (jazz), and Morgenside (classic and original rock).

The silent auction table included a print by Franz Johnston (donated by the John A. Libby Art Gallery, Toronto), framed photographs by Peter Whitfield and Elizabeth Dow, one night accommodation at the Bluebird Meadows B&B, portable water filters from General Ecology, portable UV water sterilizing pens from Hydro Photon, a beautiful birdseye maple canoe paddle from Grey Owl Paddles, and waterproof boxes from Otterbox.

We were assisted by more than 50 highly motivated volunteers, with more than 20 from Elmvale District High School and Georgian College. In appreciation of their help, all volunteers received either a SIGG or Klean Kanteen bottle, an EWF t-shirt, as well as food and water all day long. We are sincerely grateful to all of our sponsors and donors, all of whom are listed on separate pages.

Click here to download the PowerPoint presentation.