When it's hot, hot, hot outside, there's no better way to cool down than splashing in the creek. On Monday, Aug. 19, you can embrace the water's chilliness while also learning about the environment at the Chiques Creek Stomp. The event will be held in Little Chiques Park, 229 Park Ave., Mount Joy, from 6 to 7 p.m.

"The creek stomp will provide the opportunity for participants to get in the stream and collect samples of the aquatic wildlife," explained Tim Elder, treasurer of the Chiques Creek Watershed Alliance, which hosts the activity. "Representatives of the Lancaster County Conservation District will be on hand to identify what is collected and help explain how the types of aquatic life living in the stream provides an indication of the health of the stream."

While the creek stomp is fun for the whole family, it serves a bigger role than just entertainment, Elder said. "The purpose of the event is to educate people on the importance of keeping our streams clean to protect wildlife in the stream," he shared.

The Chiques Creek Watershed Alliance is a volunteer-run organization with a mission to promote good stewardship of the land within the Chiques Creek Watershed in order to protect and preserve the Chiques Creek for the present community and future generations. The Chiques Creek Watershed covers approximately 126 square miles of area, almost all of which is in Lancaster County. Beginning in Lebanon County, the Chiques Creek flows 31 miles to its confluence with the Susquehanna River near Marietta Borough. Six townships - East Hempfield, Mount Joy, Penn, Rapho, West Cornwall and West Hempfield - as well as two boroughs - Manheim and Mount Joy - have areas contained within the watershed. In addition to the creek stomp, the organization holds other community events and works with a variety of local organizations to promote environmental initiatives. Meetings are held at the Penn Township municipal building, 97 N. Penryn Road, Manheim, at 6 p.m. on the first Wednesday of the month.

There is no charge for the creek stomp, and no reservations are required. Participants should wear old shoes and clothes that they don't mind getting wet and dirty.

For more information on Chiques Creek Watershed Alliance, visit http://www.chiquescreekwatershed.com.