TOPEKA (KSNT) - The Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center is holding an educational event this weekend for World Rivers Day to teach the importance of rivers in our ecosystems. The event will be held from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21. The event will work to raise public awareness about the importance of rivers and waterways. "Rivers play a vital role in our ecosystems, economies, and daily lives. They provide essential resources, habitat for a diverse list of species, and recreational opportunities for communities around the globe. World Rivers Day also serves as a platform to acknowledge the threats and challenges facing rivers and to celebrate their beauty and significance." Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center press release excerpt Dennis Dinwiddie with the zoo said the event will have a variety of activities to entertain and educate visitors of all ages. Participants can visit craft booths, have edible treats, engage in hands-on activities and chat with zookeepers about animals that make rivers their homes. Chats with zookeepers are scheduled for 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Alligator snapping turtles are back in Kansas, what to know For more information you can contact Dinwiddie at 785-368-9134 or via email at [email protected]. For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.