Overland Park city staff will test the water of Indian Creek to observe World Water Monitoring Day Friday, Sept. 18.

"By experiencing nature first-hand, people become connected to a very valuable resource that needs to be protected," said Lisa Cox, water quality coordinator.

Staff also will be picking up trash along the banks of the stream.

"Removing bottles, bags, cans and other debris decreases the chance of chemicals being released into the water and improves the aesthetics of the stream corridor," Cox said.

World Water Monitoring Day is an international effort aimed to increase public awareness and involvement in water monitoring and protecting water resources around the world.

Conducting simple monitoring tests teaches participants about some of the most common indicators of water health and encourages further participation in more formal citizen monitoring efforts.

The city invites residents to participate in the 2009 World Water Monitoring Day this fall. Simple test kits will be provided to any person or organization willing to test, register and record their results online by Dec. 31, 2009.

To get a test, contact Lisa Cox at 913/895-6172. Cox also is available to serve as a guide for participants or groups.

Get the "HAZ" out 10/10

Cleaning out unused clutter in your home isn't just an exercise in organization; it also can be an opportunity to protect the environment while improving your homes safety.

Instead of pouring hazardous cleaning materials down the drain or tossing unused pesticides in the trash, Johnson County is offering residents an easy way to safely dispose of harmful chemicals.

Removing unwanted materials such as paint, antifreeze, insecticides, solvents and household cleaning products from your home can improve your safety while helping to prevent pollution of area streams and the environment.

To make the process as easy as possible, Johnson County's Environmental Department and the City of Olathe are teaming up to host the Fall Household Hazardous Waste Collection event from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 10.

County residents will be able to drop off hazardous waste throughout the morning at two collection sites: the Johnson County Hazardous Waste Collection Facility in Mission or the City of Olathe's Municipal Service Center, 1385 S. Robinson Drive.

The Johnson County Hazardous Waste Collection Facility also will be collecting electronics for recycling; however, there is a small fee for recycling computer monitors and televisions.

Residents planning to use the Johnson County facility will need to make an appointment to drop off their materials by calling 913/715-6900. No appointments are necessary for the Olathe site; however, directions are available by calling 913/971-9311.