Watershed Park Hidden Gem On The Illinois State Fairgrounds

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Tucked back in Happy Hollow underneath the shade is a hidden gem of the Illinois State Fair. Watershed Park is in its eleventh year at the Illinois State Fair and it’s a fun interactive learning area for kids and adults alike. Watershed Park was designed as an area where the public can learn more about how to protect Illinois water, sustainability and how to incorporate green living into everyday life.

“During the fair it becomes much more than that though” says creator and operator of Watershed Park, Mike Rahe. “We try and make it fun for kids.”

There are many activities inside the shaded gates of Watershed Park. Kids can race ducks down a stream or enjoy the variety of fish in the pond. There are also demonstrations about streams and how erosion affects them.

“The kids love to watch the stream table, and they love to look at the fish,” says Rahe. 
    
There are also interactive boards throughout the park that offer interesting information about different topics that have to do with Illinois environment. These things have been offered for the past 10 years at the fair.  
      
This year Mike Rahe, along with State Fair Manager Amy Bliefnick, decided to add a new attraction to Watershed Park. There are daily shows at 11 AM, 1:55 PM, and 4:50 PM that discuss different topics on sustainability and how to protect our environment. The shows span in variety from backyard gardens and composting to pervious pavement, and many more.

“We just want people to know we’re here.” Rahe says “It’s kind of off the beaten path a little bit, but it’s really a neat place.”

Watershed Park is open throughout the fair. There is also opportunity for small-groups to visit the area during non-fair times. For more information on all that is happening during the 2011 Illinois State Fair, visit www.illinoisstatefair.info