Serving the High Plains
Serving the High Plains
EPCOR and the city of Clovis celebrated another successful event on May 7-8. This year’s two-day Clovis Water Carnival drew participation from 12 local elementary schools, engaging approximately 550 fifth-grade students, and benefiting from over 500 volunteer hours contributed by EPCOR employees and community volunteer partners.
For the second year, EPCOR and the city partnered to bring an interactive educational platform focusing on teaching the principles of water conservation and management through a series of engaging and fun activities.
The Clovis Water Festival brings together EPCOR and various city departments including the Parks and Recreation team, the Hillcrest Zoo, Clovis High FCCLA, the Clovis Fire Department, and this year, exclusively partnered with the school district. This collaborative approach demonstrates a shared commitment to educating the community’s youth about the vital importance of water conservation.
The carnival’s curriculum-based activities are designed to make learning both enjoyable and impactful. Aligning with New Mexico’s education standards for fifth-graders, the event focuses on the water cycle and community well-being. These are not mere lessons recited from textbooks but are brought to life through interactive experiences that resonate with young minds.
For instance, the water technology station used a relay race to teach participants about how outdated water appliances are more inefficient. This hands-on approach not only engages students but also instills a practical understanding of how everyday actions can contribute to significant water savings.
Meanwhile, the water cycle station offers a journey through the hydrological process, enhancing students’ understanding of water’s path from the sky to the ground and back again.
By mobilizing its diverse teams — from conservation experts to customer care representatives — EPCOR provides a well-rounded educational experience. These professionals offer insights into the complexities of water management, making the science behind it accessible and interesting to the young audience.
As a national consortium dedicated to water education, Project Wet tailored materials help ensure that the festival’s offerings are not only fun but also meet rigorous educational standards tailored to New Mexico’s specific environmental needs.
The impact of the Clovis Water Carnival extends beyond the immediate excitement of its activities. By introducing students to the multifaceted world of water conservation in a positive and interactive environment, the carnival plants the seeds for future careers in water management and conservation.
This early engagement is crucial in inspiring the next generation of water stewards — individuals who will eventually lead the charge in managing our most precious resource.
This year’s festival also featured some unforgettable highlights, like the diverse animals brought by Hillcrest Zoo and the popular escape training trailer provided by the Clovis Fire Department. The Water Magician, Richard Steele, was a particular hit, adding a splash of magic to the serious subject of water conservation.
The community’s involvement is crucial, and it’s heartening to see local entities throwing their support behind the festival. Their participation fosters a sense of community ownership over local water issues.
As we reflect on this year’s success, it’s clear that such events are more than just educational. They are a celebration of community and a testament to the power of collaboration in tackling pressing environmental issues.
The Clovis Water Festival is a model of how communities can come together to educate and inspire, ensuring that the conversation about conservation doesn’t end when the carnival packs up.
Matt Atwood is senior communications advisor for EPCOR USA. Contact him: