This free, 15-page activity booklet is designed to teach youth and adults about the conflicting demands on Minnesota's lakes. Players learn how to balance decisions related to water pollution, personal values, and economics. In the game, a bucket of water representing a lake gradually becomes polluted and depleted. Players assume roles ranging from tourist to industrialist to homeowner.
Players also learn that decisions on how to manage lakes are difficult and often require compromise.
The game takes preparation and about 45 to 60 minutes to play. It is ideally performed with 10 to 30 players and may be used with adults as part of a public organizational meeting or with youth groups in schools, 4-H, scouts, or camps. The Lake Game for Youth, and The Lake Game for Adults. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer.