Call for Student Artwork: 2025 Green Life Exhibition

Athens-Clarke County PreK-12 students are invited to showcase their creativity in the Green Life Exhibition! This year’s theme explores the balance between urban life and nature in Athens. Students can submit a painting, drawing, sculpture, photograph, or poem that captures their perspective on sustainability and the local environment.

Artwork submissions are due by 5 PM on Friday, February 28, 2025, to the ACC Waste Reduction Division (725 Hancock Industrial Way, Athens, GA 30605). A submission form and a labeled physical copy of the artwork are required. One entry per student.

Selected pieces will be displayed at the Lyndon House Arts Center’s North Gallery throughout April 2025, with a closing reception on Thursday, May 1, from 4 to 6 PM. Notifications will be sent in mid-March.

Teachers can access free creative supplies at the Teacher Reuse Store (1005 College Ave.). Visit accgov.com/trs for store hours.

For more details, visit accgov.com/GreenLife.

Nominate a 2025 Stormwater Steward

Nominations are open for the 2025 Stormwater Steward Award. The Stormwater Steward Award recognizes environmental stewardship in the area of stormwater management. Organizations, businesses, individuals, design firms, or community groups that have worked to consider the impact of stormwater runoff on the health of area waters through a specific project, practice, or event are encouraged to apply for the award. Full details and instructions can be found at www.accgov.com/stormwater.

Applications will be accepted through Friday, March 7 and winners will be honored at the Green Life Awards Ceremony in April.

February isn’t just about chocolates and roses—it’s also a great time to show some love to our local streams and rivers. Here are a few ways to help protect our waterways this month:

• Pick Up Litter – Even one piece of trash removed makes a difference.
• Adopt a Storm Drain – Keep it clear of leaves and debris so rainwater can flow freely.
• Go Native – Plant native trees and shrubs to help filter runoff.
• Reduce Runoff – Use a rain barrel or create a rain garden to slow down and soak up rainwater.

Small actions add up. Let’s keep our waterways healthy and thriving this February.

Did You Know? February Rain and Runoff in Athens

February in Athens usually brings a good bit of rain—on average, about 4.48 inches for the month. All that water can have a big impact on our local streams and rivers, especially when it comes to stormwater runoff.

What Is Stormwater Runoff?
Stormwater runoff happens when rainwater flows over hard surfaces like roads, rooftops, and parking lots instead of soaking into the ground. As it travels, it picks up all sorts of things we don’t want in our waterways, like oil, litter, and fertilizers.

In a city like Athens, with lots of paved areas, this runoff can add up fast. It can lead to problems like pollution, erosion, and flooding in our streams and rivers.

Why Does This Matter for Athens?
When we get heavy rain in February, our streams and rivers feel the impact. Too much stormwater can erode streambanks, carry pollution into the water, and harm aquatic life.

But it’s not all bad news! Athens is home to some great community efforts, like the annual Rivers Alive cleanup, where volunteers help keep our waterways healthy.

How Can You Help?
There are plenty of simple ways to reduce stormwater runoff and protect our local streams:

• Plant a Rain Garden: These are specially designed gardens that capture rainwater and let it soak into the ground instead of running off.
• Use a Rain Barrel: Collect rainwater from your roof to use in your yard later. It’s a win-win for your plants and the waterways!
• Choose Permeable Surfaces: For driveways or patios, opt for materials that let water seep through.
• Add Stream Buffers: Planting trees or shrubs near streams helps keep the banks stable and filters out pollutants.

By making small changes in our yards and neighborhoods, we can make a big difference for Athens’ waterways—not just in February, but all year long.