MARY BALDASANO / SPECIAL TO THE PVT Interactive display teaches kids about keeping the desert clean. Advertisement

In an effort at the Nevada Test Site, the organization has created a traveling display called Operation Clean Desert.

This interactive teaching tool was most recently on display at Hafen Elementary School, and was deemed very valuable by science teachers.

Mary Brichell, the science department director and teacher said, "The children positively loved it. You couldn't hold them back. The workbook and CD, as well as the display gave them hands on opportunity to learn."

In addition to the display, teachers were given raised relief and 3-D teaching aids. "It gave us ideas for creating a different approach to getting the children involved so you keep their attention," said Brichell.

The display allowed children to push in on different characters and items to learn about its effect on the desert as well as whether it is a good or bad influence on the environment.

Using a workbook and CD, the children were taught about what happened when the above ground testing was done and then later below-ground tests. It showed the craters created in both instances and how the cleanup will progress.

It informed them how the test site began and the mission it was given in a way that young people can understand.

Using Adam the Atom, Dr. Proton, and a reference to Adam's unstable brother Axel, they learned how the testing may have affected ground water and how radioactive contamination affects the environment. It also teaches about atoms and how they interact.

An explanation was given about the equipment needed to accomplish the cleanup and what happens with the contaminated items and the special suits the cleanup personnel use in the hot weather so they can work longer periods.

If a school or group would like to have the display at a particular school, contact the DOE Public Relations Office.