U.S. Congressman Dennis Cardoza joined Merced County 4-H members to conduct the 4-H National Science Experiment during the annual “Lights on Afterschool” event Oct. 16 in Merced.

The event was part of a national 4-H effort to promote the importance of science education. At the invitation of Richard Mahacek, UC Cooperative Extension 4-H advisor in Stanislaus County, Cardoza and the youth examined the properties of water-absorbing polymers or hydrogels, which can be used for agriculture, erosion control, soil management and environmental clean-ups.

Steve Nation particiapated and took photos.