United States Congressman Dennis Cardoza (D-Merced) will see 4-H's National Science Experiment first hand when he visits "Lights On Afterschool," a community event slated for Thursday evening in downtown Merced, according to UC Cooperative Extension 4-H advisor Richard Mahacek.
Lights On Afterschool (LOA) is a national public awareness effort to promote high quality out-of-school learning opportunities to children and youth. 4-H is a national partner.
In Merced, two blocks of Main Street will be closed from 6 to 8 p.m. for LOA displays and activities. The 4-H display includes its portable 4-H Science Center and the materials for the "National Science Experiment," which was conducted by children all over the country on Oct. 8.
The experiment involves cutting into a new disposable baby diaper and separating the powdery hydrogel polymer from the other stuffing. The polymer is then combined with water to create a gooey solid. According to the National Geographic description of the 4-H experiment, adding hydrogels to the soil in the right proportions permits gardens, landscapes and farms to survive on 60 to 80 percent less water
If all goes according to plan, the congressman will spend half an hour at the 4-H display, where he will be recognized for his support of the 4-H Science, Engineering and Technology program.
For more information, see the National 4-H Council's media advisory.