Groundwater University

Discover how to monitor and evaluate water quality by collecting water samples and testing them for pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature and turbidity. Learn how sink holes form and how various types of pollution can enter groundwater supplies by building aquifer models with gravel, sand, and soil. Test theories of soil subsidence by shaking and smashing crisp rice cereal. Experience the exciting world of GPS (Global Positioning System) and learn how scientists use the technology to protect the environment. Dig down to the water table and discover the relationship of surface water to groundwater. Tour a research facility dedicated to discovering new ways to produce better crops with less water and chemicals. These are just a few of the numerous activities that engaged the minds of the students at Groundwater University. View 2004 photo album to see more.

Groundwater University was a summer-camp program for junior and high school students and is designed to educate these future leaders about groundwater and the environment through a variety of fun, hands-on activities, tours, and games. 

Expanding the Program
2004 marked the final year for Groundwater University as a stand-alone summer camp organized by The Groundwater Foundation. After 15 successful years of providing this educational experience to students, The Groundwater Foundation decided to broaden its impact by integrating groundwater education into existing summer camps and creating a new camp which tags along with the Foundation's existing conference. This strategic change allows The Groundwater Foundation to focus its resources on groundwater education and at the same time greatly increase the number of youth participating in “Groundwater University style” educational activities.

The Groundwater Foundation is pleased to present two new programs which replace Groundwater University:

• Hydro Heroes: A fun, action packed weekend full of tours, trips and experiments all in the name of protecting the environment. Students who participate in Hydro Heroes will learn that heroes for the environment come in all sorts of packages, even inside themselves..

• H2O on the Go: bringing the educational activities of Groundwater University to existing youth programming in the Lincoln, Nebraska, area. Future plans for H2O on the Go include nation wide expansion through a training module and tool kit.