Kick Off 2026 with a Celebration of Water, from Raindrop to River

It may not be top of mind, but it is “top of faucet.’ Our local water quality affects all of us—from the moment a raindrop hits the ground to the moment it joins a river on its long journey to the Gulf of Mexico.

To celebrate and explore the importance of clean, healthy water, the Ashland Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is hosting Raindrop to River, a fun and educational community event on January 10 at the Perrysville Fire Department. The event will offer residents a chance to learn about local water quality, discover ways to make a positive impact, and enjoy family-friendly activities.

“Our goal is for this event to truly feel like a watershed party,” said Jane Houin, Ashland SWCD Director. “We’ll have fun activities for the whole family—from hands-on play with our Enviroscape model (for kids and grown-ups!) to learning about local programs that help residents put conservation practices into action at home, in their neighborhoods, or on the farm.”

Attendees will also have the chance to win a one-of-a-kind door prize: a hand-painted, Ashland-themed, urn-style rain barrel originally created for last year’s Rain Beat on Main Street event.

As part of the celebration, participants will be invited to share feedback and help identify priority areas in the Charles Mill and Honey Creek watersheds. This input will help Ashland SWCD shape a detailed watershed plan for 2026.

Guests can also learn about a variety of grant and cost-share opportunities for conservation practices, including cover crops, livestock stream exclusion fencing, log jam removal, rain barrels, and streambank stabilization projects. Information about volunteer opportunities—such as water quality monitoring and canoe clean-up events—will also be available.

Registration is free, and snacks will be provided. To RSVP, visit raindroptoriver.eventbrite.com or call Zoey Dudte, Ashland SWCD Water Quality Specialist, at 419-281-7645.

Ashland SWCD’s monthly Conservation Chat series of events is designed to bring together local producers, conservation professional and community partners for down-to-earth discussions on stewardship and sustainability—with a side of good food and great company.