Re-Gen Earns National Recognition for Community Education

Arlington County has been honored with a 2026 National Environmental Achievement Award (NEAA) from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies, a national leadership and innovation award in environmental protection and the clean water sector. The County received the award in the Public Information and Education: Educational Program category for Let It Flow!, a carnival-style educational game developed in partnership with the Arlington Art Truck.

Designed by artist Scott Pennington, Let It Flow! features a large, brightly painted game board modeled after a classic carnival toss. The sloped surface includes real toilet lids, stainless steel sinks, trash bins, and food scrap containers, representing everyday disposal options found at home. Players toss bean bags printed with common items like wipes, dental floss, cotton swabs, and food scraps into the target where they think each belongs. When the round ends, staff walk through the results, sparking conversations about impacts to infrastructure and the environment when items are not properly disposed.

The simple, hands-on games makes it easy to jump in, compare choices, and learn by doing. Since 2024, the game has traveled to community events, farmers markets, and festivals across Arlington. Most recently, it was featured at the October 2025 Arlington Re-Gen Open House, where it helped introduce neighbors and community members to the Re-Gen program.