Dam Jam Festival Celebrates Water

BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. (WJZ) -- Turning on the tap is as close to water as some people get, but the Dam Jam Festival is trying to change that.

Gigi Barnett has more.

The Dam Jam Festival is a celebration of water and its source: the many streams and waterways that run through the county and city.

Only in its first year, the fall festival has one clear goal: teach people to protect and preserve the water by bringing them closer to the Loch Raven Dam.

"Just picking up trash and making sure certain trash doesn't go into the storm drains that affect our drinking water. Even animal waste, making sure people clean up after their dogs. That's very important, too," said County Executive Kevin Kamenetz.

For some parents, it's a time to teach.

"I think it's essential for any parent to give their children exposure to the environment and our children just enjoy it," said Martina Delks.

Maryland's waterways are home to thousands of animals who need it just as much as humans. Dam Jam also features Scales and Tales, a state-operated animal rescue program for injured wildlife...so when you're near water, watch out for them, too.

"Anybody that we can get this message across to is one more person that may be aware that we interact with these animals every day, even though you aren't aware or don't see them," said Betty Rossie.

Dam Jam visitors were also treated to a tour of the dam. The festival is one of only two days that the dam is open to the public.

The other day the dam is open to people is during Loch Raven Day, which is in the spring.