Penn State Extension Master Watershed Stewards are first and foremost, volunteers. The goal of this training program is to expand upon your water and natural resources knowledge with Penn State's research-based information so that you will broaden our conservation outreach into the community.
Master Watershed Stewards will do this in a variety of programs, such as:
- Answering landowner questions about streamside property stewardship
- Assisting with stream restoration projects
- Teaching stream ecology or wildlife habitat classes
- Writing for municipal newsletters
- Organizing litter clean ups
- Speaking to neighborhood groups
- Working with municipal officials on invasive plant removal projects
- Creating and staffing educational display
- Working with school children
- Carrying out water quality testing
If all of this excites you, then you will make an excellent candidate for the Master Watershed Steward program!
This program will provide satisfying volunteer work in an exciting field, provide access to the most current information on environmental conservation, and create an opportunity to meet lots of wonderful people. We are excited to offer this program and work to protect the region's precious natural resources.
Who Should Not Be A Master Watershed Steward?
If you have an interest in learning more about water resources and conservation, but are not really interested in volunteer work, we would suggest you look into many of the evening educational programs offered by some of our partners.
If you work in an environmental profession, and want to go through the training to add the Master Watershed Steward title to your credentials, understand that Penn State does not allow our volunteers to use the distinction of Master Watershed Steward while engaging in for-profit activities. The Master Watershed Steward title also cannot be used for advocacy purposes. If you are interested in policy issues, we would suggest you volunteer for organizations like the Sierra Club.
Master Watershed Steward Program Expectations and Policies
- You may miss one session if you have a scheduling conflict that cannot be changed. Additional missed sessions can by made up by watching recordings.
- There is a $150 one-time training fee, payable at the first session, to help offset the cost of program materials such as the manual and name badge; however, financial aid is available to those who need it.
- Varies by county: An assigned group or individual project may be assigned to help get you started with volunteer work; the time that this project takes will count towards your volunteer hours, described below.
- Give and report a minimum of 20 hours of volunteer service during the year that begins with the day of the first class. All projects and presentations must be approved by the Coordinator.
- To maintain your status as an active volunteer, you should give at least 20 hours of volunteer time and take 10 hours of continuing education each year. If you struggle to make these goals, you can always talk to your coordinator - they're here to help and make your volunteer service fun, accessible and rewarding!
- Active volunteers are fully covered by our liability and accident insurance.
Once the above requirements have been completed, you will be considered a Master Watershed Steward.
