We drink it, bathe in it, cook with it and even play in it.

So how do we know there is enough of this essential source to meet our everyday needs?

The conference is targeted to Alabama’s young people between the ages of 14 and 19.

This year’s theme is "Man’s Impact on Watersheds."

"Watersheds are one of the areas most susceptible to pollution because they act as a sort of funnel by which pollution washes into surface water and groundwater," says Emily Kling, an Extension 4-H environment specialist and conference organizer.

This, she says, is why it is so important for Alabama’s young people understand the importance of watersheds to the future of environmental water quality.

"From a water-quality standpoint, Alabama is rich beyond comparison," she says. "But polls consistently show our kids rank near the bottom in environmental stewardship."

Today’s young people will grow up to be the voters and policymakers of tomorrow, and this is why Kling and the other conference organizers believe it is so important for them to gain an appreciation early in life for the importance of protecting watersheds.

During the two-day conference, young people will participate in field experiences and simulated environmental planning activities. They will also get to speak with water-quality professionals and policymakers. Special emphasis will be placed on helping young people understand the concepts of watershed management.

Environmental experts believe one of the most important environmental issues in the future will involve the licensing of dams. As part of the licensing process, federal authorities are required by law to hold public meetings to solicit views of local residents and stakeholders.

With this in mind, conference organizers have planned an extensive tour of a local dam on March 28. Following the tour, students will hold their own mock public meeting.

"They will get to participate in one of the stakeholder groups involved in the process, such as government officials, environmental groups, landowner associations or private industry officials," Kling says, "and they will be challenged to represent their group during the mock public meeting."

To facilitate discussion, each group will be led by a real stakeholder, which includes Sherri Summers of the Opelika Chamber of Commerce, who will represent the government group, and Linda Shotz of the 4-H Center, who will represent the environmental group."

Students also will attend a series of hands-on workshops dealing with water chemistry, map reading, soil types, vegetation patterns and fauna.

Later that day, youngsters will attend a discussion concerning the ongoing water-use dispute between Alabama and Georgia and will be exposed to all of the major factions and issues involved in this dispute.