The city of Ames hosted its annual Eco Fair at the Ames Community Center on Saturday. Eco Fair is a citywide festival that features the sustainable businesses, programs and recreational opportunities that Ames has to offer.

Jan Thompson, ISU professor of natural resource ecology and management, said Eco Fair began as Energy Fair and switched to an all-encompassing sustainability fair last year. Thompson was volunteering at the Trees Forever booth, which gives $50 vouchers to Ames residents wishing to plant a native species tree on their property.

Trees Forever was not the only booth promoting the planting of native species. The Ames Public Work Department was giving away several species of trees and flowers while educating residents on the importance of replanting its native landscape. They were also enlightening people about the importance of watersheds and how to protect the ones located in Ames.

Besides booths committed to improving the natural aesthetics of Ames, there were many booths focused on green energy and energy reduction. Cyclone Total Indoor Comfort, a geothermal energy provider, was distributing information on the benefits of this green energy source as well as the 30 percent tax break given to Ames residents wishing to make the switch.

Another energy-saving awareness booth was Smart Water, which works with the city of Ames to encourage frugal water use and the implementation of water saving household devices.

Jim Gaunt, a volunteer for the booth, said it takes as much energy to treat wastewater as it does to get water to the user. Gaunt advocated for shorter showers — the average shower requires 30 gallons of water — and turning the running water off while brushing your teeth and washing your dishes.

In addition to offering knowledge and tips as to how you can act as a steward to your environment, Eco Fair also provided fun kids’ activities, giveaways and free food.

“Having an eco-fest is important to raise awareness of smart programs to improve the quality of life,” said Pat Sauer, the storm water program adviser for the Ames Public Works Department.

The city of Ames has now rounded off its ninth year of promoting sustainability.