Master Watershed Stewards are doing great things in their communities! What great things are they doing?
This spring, Robert Kampfe organized trash clean-up and invasive species removal at the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area; Peggy Thomas is currently working to have “Watch for Wildlife” signs posted along the Bush Highway along the Salt River to protect vital wildlife in the area.
What do they all have in common? They were both a part of the Master Watershed Steward (MWS) program last fall. Volunteers were able to achieve these things, and much more, thanks to their Master Watershed Steward training. The Master Watershed Steward program is a 40-hour course that enables participants to gain hands-on experience with local water projects and attend classes taught by university faculty and local experts. Participants learn about water management, climate, geology, and more!
Graduates receive a certificate of completion from the University of Arizona and the opportunity to be part of projects that are designed especially for course graduates. These meaningful and engaging projects are a result of partnerships that make this program a huge success, such as our partnership with the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department. Last February, the Stewards and Park Rangers organized the first ever Dragonfly Festival. This amazing event attracted 450 people to the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area, near downtown Phoenix, on a beautiful Saturday morning to enjoy guided wetland walks, wildlife exhibits, and educational booths while sampling local food truck flavors and interacting with artists who created Dragonfly motifs especially for the event. MWS grads are also encouraged to create their own projects like Robert and Peggy did!
Check out our Valley Forward Award! This honor exemplifies how this unique program inspires people and shapes communities.
When: Thursday from October 17th-December 12th (excluding Thanksgiving and including two Saturday Field trips November 2nd and November 7th)
Where: University of Arizona Maricopa Cooperative Extension
4341 E Broadway Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85040
How to apply: Click here to fill out an application and email to kelsey.morton@email.arizona.edu, or mail to the address above. Note that the deadline to apply is October 3rd.
Cost: The cost is $125.00 and includes The Arizona Watershed Stewardship Guide, additional course materials, transportation to and from field sites, and light snacks. Partial scholarships are available.
For more information:
Like us on Facebook: Facebook.com/MasterWatershedSteward
Summer Waters is a Water Resources Extension Agent with the University of Arizona. She works at the Maricopa County Cooperative Extension office in Phoenix.