A Kent State University expert in the vitality of fresh water ecosystems will speak at a screening of a film that describes the health history of the Cuyahoga River.

Dr. Robert Heath, director of the Kent State University Water Resources Research Institute, will speak at the second annual “Who’s Your Mama?” Earth Day Festival, on Sunday, April 20.  Heath’s remarks will precede the screening of “The Return of the Cuyahoga,” an environmental film which takes a look at the life, death and rebirth of one of America’s most polluted rivers. The production follows the river through its history of pollution, environmental movements including the creation of the Clean Water Act and its rebirth as a source of recreation and entertainment, as well as an industrial resource.

“The Return of the Cuyahoga” will be shown at 1 p.m. on April 20 at the Kent Stage. Heath’s discussion will begin at 12:30 p.m., immediately before the film. Heath will discuss the importance of the water quality of the Cuyahoga River to Northeast Ohio.  An ecosystem ecologist and researcher for more than 35 years, Heath’s research group develops and applies novel molecular approaches to ecological and environmental problems of freshwater quality.

The Kent State University Water Resources Research Institute is a facility that actively supports research related to water quality and water management in Northeast Ohio.

The Kent Stage is located at 175 E. Main St. in downtown Kent. The general admission of $10 for a one-day pass or $15 for a weekend pass covers all festival activities, including admission to the film. Students and seniors receive a $3 discount. 

The “Who’s Your Mama?” Earth Day Festival begins April 16, with community and school-related events throughout Portage County, and culminates the weekend of April 19 and 20 in downtown Kent. Planned events include films; booths in downtown Kent offering environmentally-friendly merchandise; a Green Building Design presentation; dance performances; a fashion show of recycled, wearable art; a public panel discussion on conservation; and a tree-planting ceremony.

Additional information about the festival is available at http://www.whosyourmama.org.

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