PROGRAMS
IL-IN Master Watershed Steward Program
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ABOUT THE COURSE
The Illinois-Indiana Master Watershed Steward Program engages participants as stewards of natural ecosystems and resources through science-based education in their communities. Master Watershed Stewards promote healthy watersheds by increasing their understanding of potential causes of water resource degradation and providing the knowledge and tools they need to identify, prevent, or resolve water quality problems.
Master Watershed Stewards understand how watersheds function and are willing to help with watershed improvement efforts in their communities. After completing the training program, these stewards are encouraged to put their knowledge to work by participating in various community projects, depending on their interests. Some examples include:
- Assisting with local streambank restoration projects.
- Joining a local watershed group.
- Promoting safe boating on local waterways.
- Organizing a riverside clean-up event.
- Staffing an information table at a local festival or event.
- Organizing community workshops on topics such as rain barrels, rain gardens, wildlife, pollution prevention, or invasive plant control.
- Working with community leaders to find creative ways to protect local rivers and streams.
We are looking for people with a keen interest in the environment, a willingness to learn, and — most importantly — a strong desire to make a difference in the community.
The Illinois-Indiana Master Watershed Steward Program Toolkit provides all materials necessary to guide hosts and future Master Watershed Stewards through the program curriculum, engaging participants as stewards of natural resources and ecosystems through science-based education and volunteer service in their communities. The toolkit includes host resources, curriculum unit materials, and course evaluation resources.
More information, including contacts, can be found at https://iiseagrant.org/work/healthy-waters/programs-initiatives/master-watershed-steward/
Program Impact
The IL-IN Master Watershed Steward Program increases participants’ knowledge, skills, and confidence related to watershed stewardship topics while strengthening their commitment to environmental action. Participants reported meaningful learning gains, a deeper understanding of the connections between natural systems, and greater preparedness to apply their knowledge through community engagement and conservation efforts. Many indicated plans to participate in activities such as community science, ecosystem restoration, watershed improvement projects, and environmental outreach. The program’s combination of educational content and hands-on experiences empowered participants to become more active stewards of local water resources, while consistently high satisfaction ratings demonstrated the program’s effectiveness and value to participants.
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