Tale of Great Lakes shown in screening of ‘Waterlife’

Submitted by McHenry County Conservation District

McHenry County Conservation District will host a showing of the 2009 documentary “Waterlife” from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 29, at Lost Valley Visitor Center in Glacial Park, Route 31 and Harts Road, Ringwood.

This film tells the epic story of the Great Lakes by following the cascade of its water from northern Lake Superior to the Atlantic Ocean through the lives of those who rely on the lakes for survival. From the icy cliffs of Lake Superior to the ornate fountains of Chicago to the sewers of Windsor, this feature-length documentary tells the story of the last huge supply (20 percent) of fresh water on Earth.

The source of drinking water, fish and emotional sustenance for 35 million people, the Great Lakes are under assault by toxins, sewage, invasive species, dropping water levels and apathy. Some scientists believe the lakes are on the verge of ecological collapse.

“Waterlife” is an epic cinematic poem about the beauty of water and the dangers of taking it for granted. The film is narrated by The Tragically Hip’s Gord Downie and features music by Sam Roberts, Sufjan Stevens, Sigur Ros, Robbie Robertson and Brian Eno. The Waterlife website won the 2010 Webby Award in the category of Documentary, Single Episode. To view the website, visit waterlife.nfb.ca.

Join in viewing this documentary on this precious resource.

Registration and fee are required by Friday, Feb. 24. The fee is $2 for county residents and $3 for nonresidents. The program is for adults age 14 and older. Register online at MCCDistrict.org, by phone, mail or walk-in at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake, (815) 479-5779.