Master Watershed Steward Program
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.
The curriculum focuses on topics such as water quality science and the impacts of climate change, invasive species, and agriculture on water bodies. The Illinois-Indiana Master Watershed Steward Program Toolkit provides all materials necessary to guide hosts and future Master Watershed Stewards through eight interactive sessions. Upon completion of the training, Master Watershed Stewards are prepared to engage in restoration science, community science, and community education programs with local partners.
The program is offered state-wide in Illinois and Indiana as a collaboration between Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, University of Illinois, Purdue University, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and other partners.
What is a Master Watershed Steward?
Master Watershed Stewards understand how watersheds function and are willing to help with watershed improvement efforts in their communities.
Master Watershed Steward volunteers learning how to assess water quality in a local stream
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.
Who should sign up?
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. Whether you are a teacher, an accountant, a construction worker, a homemaker, a stay-at-home parent, or in any other line of work, you can become a Master Watershed Steward in Illinois and Indiana!
Many states around the country offer Master Watershed Steward Programs that train volunteers in the basics of maintaining and enhancing water resources. In our two states, the Master Watershed Steward program is open to all residents.
To become a certified Master Watershed Steward, you must complete 8 weeks of training (one education module per week) and 35 hours of volunteer service over a two-year period. We will help you identify volunteer opportunities that fit your interests.
PGPs/CEUs are available for educators.
Program Toolkit
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.
Once you have signed up for the program, you will gain access to the Illinois-Indiana Master Watershed Steward Program Toolkit website. The website is accessible only to those who have been granted sharing permissions. If you’re having issues logging in, please contact Leslie Dorworth for Indiana or Eliana Brown for Illinois — contact info at the bottom of this page.
Registration Details
To register for an upcoming Master Watershed Steward Program, please reach out to your local county Extension office (through University of Illinois for Illinois residents or Purdue University for Indiana residents). You can find contact info here:
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Project Team
Leslie Dorworth, Aquatic Ecology Specialist, ldorwort@pnw.edu
Kara Salazar, Assistant Program Leader for Community Development with Purdue Extension and Sustainable Communities Extension Specialist, salazark@purdue.edu
Eliana Brown, Stormwater Specialist, brown12@illinois.edu