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. 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 provide education on 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 Master Watershed Steward, you must complete eight education modules in a workshop series format, either in person, online, or hybrid, depending on local offerings. At the conclusion of the workshop series, hosts will issue a certificate of completion. Workshop hosts also provide community-based partner networking opportunities for Master Watershed Stewards to support local efforts. Partnering organizations provide these volunteer offerings, which are not a required part of the course but are encouraged.

PGPs/CEUs are available for educators.

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.

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:

• Purdue Extension Offices
• University of Illinois Extension Offices

Illinois-Indiana Master Watershed Steward Program 

 

@IndianaMWSP