Thursday, February 24, 2022

Advice from Owlie – What’s an aquifer?

 Q: Dear Owlie,

This week in school we learned more about aquifers. I think aquifers are really interesting and I want to teach my brothers and sisters about them at home! Do you have any resources that can help me demonstrate how an aquifer works? Thanks Owlie!

Sincerely, 

Amazing Aquifers


A: Dear Amazing Aquifers,

I am happy to hear that you enjoyed learning about aquifers and want to teach your family about them. First, I’ll start by giving a brief introduction to what an aquifer is. An aquifer is an underground layer of rocks and soil holding water. Aquifers can be just a few feet under the soil or can sit hundreds of feet deep.

 We have an At-Home Activity that will demonstrate how an aquifer works. Our Edible Aquifer activity is a perfect way for you to learn all about aquifers and make your own yummy aquifer that you can eat after! This activity can be delicious, but please get permission from your parents or guardians before using any food products. It can be found here, on our YouTube page.

For this activity, you will need:

  • Edible aquifer visual aid
  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Clear soda
  • Crushed chocolate cookies
  • Sprinkles
  • Gummy bears
  • Drinking straws
  • Spoons
  • Clear cups
  • Trash bags
  • Paper towels

The cup represents the basin. The materials that go inside of the cup represent rainwater, grass, gravel and soil, clay, rock, and water! Watch our YouTube video to see how it all comes together to demonstrate how an aquifer works.

I hope you enjoy this tasty activity while you teach your family about aquifers!

Talk to you all soo(HOO)n!

Owlie