Metro Lex News

Lexington is gearing up to host its fifth annual Water Week, set to take place from March 16 to 23, offering a range of activities designed to foster a deeper connection with the city's local waterways. Participants of all ages and abilities are encouraged to engage in over 20 events that include in-person, virtual, and self-guided opportunities.

According to the event organizers, this year's Water Week will feature activities such as hikes at various city parks, rain garden presentations, a greenway ecology forum, litter cleanups, watershed walks, and bioblitzes aimed at documenting local flora and fauna. Families with children can also look forward to the chance to hunt for "creek critters," the macroinvertebrates inhabiting the streams.

As part of the festivities, runners and walkers are invited to register for the sixth annual Reforest 5K, scheduled for Saturday, March 23 at Hisle Farm Park. This event, organized by Johns Run/Walk Shop, supports the Reforest the Bluegrass program, which facilitates tree planting initiatives in Lexington. Participants in the race will have the option to take a tree home or have it planted on their behalf during a Reforest event, with the aim of utilizing trees to naturally collect and filter rainwater, thereby safeguarding the city's waterways.

Additionally, organizations in Lexington interested in enhancing water quality or minimizing stormwater runoff can participate in a virtual information session about the Stormwater Quality Incentive Grant Program. The session will be held twice, on March 18 and March 20, providing insights into potential projects and initiatives.

Water Week is proudly sponsored by the City of Lexington, the University of Kentucky, and local watershed organizations. Further information about the events and registration details for the Reforest 5K can be found on the Water Week webpage.

This initiative is part of the broader efforts in Lexington, such as the Solarize Lexington program, which encourages solar panel installations to reduce environmental impact. The city is also currently accepting applications for the Stormwater Quality Projects Incentive Grant Program, aimed at supporting projects that enhance water quality and reduce stormwater runoff.