The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC), in collaboration with its partners, will host Riverfest on Saturday, June 8 and Sunday, June 9, 2024, from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Bicentennial Park on the Scioto Mile during the Columbus Arts Festival.
Riverfest is an annual event that offers recreational water activities to residents while learning more about water resources, and bringing greater awareness, stronger appreciation, and inspiring action on the importance of clean water in the region. Through recreational activities, including free kayaking, and paddleboarding, organizers aim to raise awareness, inspire action, accelerate inclusion, and promote a stronger appreciation of the world’s most precious resource.
Water activities are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Safety vests will be provided. To participate, residents will need to fill out and submit a waiver.
This year, MORPC is partnering with the Girl Scouts of Ohio’s Heartland. Troops were encouraged to record a video on what it means to have clean water and how you can keep our water healthy and clean, and present a design idea to portray that message on a rain barrel. Selected troops will have the opportunity to meet with their local soil and water conservation districts to learn about protecting the region’s natural resources and explore careers in conservation.
As part of the 2024 Riverfest celebration, MORPC hosts events that focus on the region’s activities in accelerating change for preserving and maintaining clean water while meeting the region’s needs. Access to clean water is a human right; however, everyone has a role in maintaining and improving the region’s water bodies. When our water systems are unhealthy, it creates a ripple effect that leads to the decreased health of our communities.
The outdoors continues to be a healthy source of recreation, and many explore the region daily, home to abundant waterbodies and serene views with planned trails. Central Ohio has more than 100 miles of water to paddle along the Alum Creek, Big Darby Creek, Big Walnut Creek, Olentangy River, and Scioto River within Delaware, Franklin, and Pickaway counties. Additionally, the region has a trail network spanning 230+ miles connecting Central Ohio to other parts of the state and country.
MORPC hosts this annual event in partnership with the Franklin County Engineer’s office, Columbus Metro Parks, the city of Columbus Department of Public Utilities, Be the Change for Clean Water, and the Girl Scouts of Ohio’s Heartland.
For more information, please contact Edwina Teye at eteye@morpc.org.
