2016 Downtown Storm Inlet Painting Project | Sioux Falls, SD
Water is our most important natural resource, and it no longer inexhaustible. Basin-scale water use maps can help us understand how water is used and evaluate aquifer depletions (GISuser). The High Plains areas are abnormally dry from the U.S. Drought Monitor and major corn, soybean, hay, and cattle areas are affected (U.S. Drought). States including South Dakota contribute to global agriculture feeding people and livestock around the world at the price of polluting our local water.
By participating in the Storm Inlet Painting Project, I hope to bring awareness to these complex issues our water and community faces.
Painting with watercolors, tint and shade create a 3-dimensional water droplet floating on the surface of the state of South Dakota. I have been very inspired by Sharon Day of Minnesota leading Nibi (Water) Walks on Rivers across the Midwest. “Nibi Walks are indigenous-led, extended ceremonies to pray for the water. Every step is a taken in prayer and gratitude for water, our life giving force” (Nibi Walk). By thinking of Sharon Day and her dedication to our natural resourse, the Water, I highlighted the Missouri and Big Sioux Rivers. Let’s stand together and PROTECT THE BIG SIOUX!
Thank you card from Jessica Lantgen, SF Sustainability Coordinator
