The pupils of Kakanui School played their part in improving water quality, reducing soil erosion and increasing biodiversity in the Kakanui River yesterday.
Three pupils from the 39-pupil school unveiled a new map in Harbour Tce, Kakanui, to the applause of their classmates and a small crowd.
Kakanui Community Catchment Project co-ordinator Nicola Homes said the three-year project, which wraps up in November, was aimed at raising awareness of water quality issues in the North Otago river's catchment.
Four signs would be installed as a part of the project - in Kakanui, at Gemmells Crossing reserve, Clifton Falls and the Alps 2 Ocean cycle way in Enfield - and would outline the 850sqkm catchment's boundary and environmental and recreational opportunities in the area for both residents and visitors.
Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher, who spoke to the children yesterday, said he wanted swimmable rivers in the district and he believed the district was headed in the right direction with improved processes and farming leaders following best practices.
"It's trying to get rid of the silo - you're responsible for that, we're responsible for this. Obviously, there's a whole blending there.''
