Idaho Cleanup Project team members recently joined federal, state and local entities to host interactive stations at the 2026 Idaho Falls Water Festival. June 16, 2026
Office of Environmental Management
June 16, 2026
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Gary Cox, an Idaho Environmental Coalition employee, teaches local students about landfill liners and environmental protection at the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality’s 2026 Idaho Falls Water Festival.
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — Idaho Cleanup Project (ICP) team members recently joined federal, state and local entities to host interactive stations at the 2026 Idaho Falls Water Festival, helping more than 1,800 fifth and sixth grade students from eastern Idaho understand the importance of clean water and how future generations can protect Idaho’s natural resources.
"Events like the Water Festival help students see just how essential clean water is to every part of life in Idaho,” said Destiny Locke, water quality analyst with the regional office of the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), which organizes the annual two-day event. “When young people get hands-on experience with real science, they begin to understand their role in protecting our natural resources for the future."
Employees with ICP contractor Idaho Environmental Coalition (IEC) hosted an educational booth that focused on how the Idaho National Laboratory Site uses landfill liners to protect groundwater. Students participated in hands-on activities demonstrating how engineered barriers safeguard water resources. The ICP team members explained the function and necessity of landfill liners and their connection to ICP’s mission to protect the underlying Snake River Plain Aquifer.
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management (EM) participation underscores the significance of partnerships that promote environmental literacy and responsible stewardship across the region. The EM team members helped ensure students learn core scientific concepts and emphasized how the workforce safeguards Idaho’s natural resources. They also sought to inspire the students to become future leaders and stewards of Idaho’s natural resources.
"IEC is proud to support programs that strengthen environmental awareness in our communities," said Dana Kirkham, IEC senior director for Environmental Services and Strategic Affairs. "When students learn directly from the people working to protect Idaho’s environment, they gain a deeper appreciation for why this work matters and how they can contribute."
-Contributor: Ryan Christensen
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