Preservation and awareness of water in the Great Lakes region is a responsibility, said Seth Bernard of Earthwork Music, one of many musicians to perform at the Water Festival in Mackinaw City Saturday, August 19. The festival is free of charge and sponsored by Earthwork Music, Seeds, and the Mackinaw City Chamber of Commerce.

From 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Conkling Heritage Park will be the scene of the water-based celebration, which will combine music and environmental education. Ten to 15-minute talks about the Great Lakes will take place between performances, and participants can learn about water at informational tables.

The Water Festival is intended to kick off a series of events across the region concerning environmental stewardship "in a way that builds community," Mr. Bernard said.

Seeds is a nonprofit institution dedicated to developing sustainable social and ecological movements. Earthwork Music focuses on cultivating artistic communities through music.

Tip of the Mitt Watershed council will be one of the presenters. Others include the Little Traverse Conservancy, The League of Conservation Voters, Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation, and a Great Lakes fisherman.

It will be a day of music provided by Madcat Ruth with The Freshwater Dolphins, Sweet Water Women, Kirby, Robin Lee Berry and Jen Sygit, Drew Howard, Breathe Owl Breathe, Phil Wintermute, and Susan Fawcett.

At 6 p.m. there will be dinner and a discussion break prior to "Music in Mackinaw" concert series performances by Daisy May and Seth Bernard at 8 p.m.

Mr. Bernard said the event is "about having a good time, and saying 'I can help and I will help.'"