After it rains, go for a walk around your neighborhood, a park, or your backyard. Take note of where the water goes after it falls—does it soak into the soil, form puddles, or run off into storm drains?

If you have access to a creek or river, check how high the water is compared to a dry day. Can you see any changes in water levels after the rain?

Take notes about where you see water accumulating and how it moves through the environment. Create a map of your area and where the water is! Which surfaces are absorbing water, and which are causing runoff?

Reflect on where the rainwater comes from and where it goes. Does it eventually reach a body of water like a lake or river?

Think about what happens when there isn’t enough rain. How do water sources in Austin, like the Colorado River and Highland Lakes, change during a drought?

Once you’ve completed your walk and reflection, share your observations and understanding of Austin’s water flow and the importance of water conservation.