The Smithsonian exhibit, Water/Ways was on display at the Niles District Library from January 5 through February 16 (2019).
During that period the exhibit was available at the library which also hosted multiple programs, where people heard from experts, participated in hands-on activities and toured water infrastructure.
Niles History Center also offered a companion exhibit on how water has shaped the history of our City. Special programs took place, with nearby organizations as partners, including Fernwood Nature Center, Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission and more.
Throughout history we have polluted various water bodies, while we have since become “wise” to the ways to reduce pollution and protect the resource, there is still room for improvement. People need to be vigilant of warning signs that could indicate trouble to water resources. We need to remember the five Ws of water: Wonder, Waste, Wise, Warning and We.
Water/Ways exhibit explores the essential role that water plays in our environment and society. Throughout the globe, water holds extensive cultural value as a symbol of power and force, grace and fluidity, and healing and cleansing. Water is a resource that has dictated migration patterns, affected economic prosperity, and shaped communities throughout time, and continues to be one of Earth’s most defining resources. Here in Michigan, the value of water as both a human resource and a cultural symbol is both understood and treasured, and we are thrilled to be bringing this exhibit to the Great Lakes state.
The exhibit and closing on Saturday February 16 were held in the Niles Library community Room and Rotunda. Those participating on the last day of the exhibit included the following.
Michigan Underwater Divers Club, Be Storm Water Savvy, Michigan Garden Clubs – Four Flags Garden Club; Niles Wastewater Treatment Plant- (Emily Peters senior chemist); Bucket of Care – What do you care about water in Michigan?; Chikaming Open Lands; Pokagon Band of Potawatomi – DNR -Natural Resources (Honor and Protect: Traditional Potawatomi Waterways); Fernwood ; Two Rivers Coalition; Paw Paw River Watershed.
Remember: You can be “the solution to pollution”.
Hosted by the Niles District Library (Mi.)