Frequently Asked Questions
What is a watershed?
A watershed is an area of land where all water drains into a common body of water. Lakes, streams, ponds and wetlands are all a part of a watershed. They come in all shapes and sizes and can cross national and international borders.
What is Caring for our Watersheds (CFOW)?
CFOW is an environmental contest for students. Youth submit a proposal that answers the question, "What can you do to improve your watershed?" Participants must research their local watershed, identify an environmental concern and came up with a realistic solution. Community judges select the top entries to compete at a final competition.
All students are encouraged to implement their ideas.
When did CFOW begin?
CFOW was piloted from 2007-2009 within the Battle River Watershed (Camrose, Alberta area). When the students were asked what they could do to help their watershed, the answers surprised everyone. Not only because students provided new solutions to old problems, but also because it was apparent how much future generations care about watersheds, their world and their place in it. Local community partners such as the Battle River Watershed Alliance were instrumental in connecting students with real life opportunities.
Where is CFOW offered?
Canada: Alberta (Central and Southern area), Saskatchewan (Saskatoon area), Manitoba (Portage La Prairie area) and Ontario (Campbellford area)
United States: Colorado (Loveland area), District of Columbia (Washington), Virginia (Arlington area) and California (Sacramento area).
Future years: North America, South America, Europe and China.
How do I get CFOW in my area?
Agrium sponsors CFOW in communities where they operate and areas with nutrient stewardship challenges. Contact Agrium Corporate Relations at 1-403-225-7000 or CorpRel@agrium.com.
Who can enter the contest?
Agrium's Community Partners in each state/province decides the eligible grade levels (between Grades 6-12) and the watershed(s) that will participate. Go to CaringForOurWatersheds.com and select your contest location.
What are the prizes?
Cash prizes (amounts may vary by location) are given to the finalists. First place is $1,000!
Participating schools are eligible for rewards as well.
$10,000 in funding is also available for implementation.
Why is Agrium sponsoring Caring for our Watersheds?
This is a GREAT program! It engages youth and finds solutions to environmental concerns. Agrium's operations depend on sustainable agricultural practices, which depend on healthy watersheds. Moreover, Agrium is committed to environmental stewardship and nutrient management.
