Posted: November 5, 2025
Support the Master Watershed Steward program in your community this Giving Tuesday.
Master Watershed Steward Jim Lewis spreading seeds for a meadow restoration.
This Giving Tuesday, the Master Watershed Steward program is raising funds to support the purchase of native wildflower, grass, and sedge seeds that will be planted across the Commonwealth. These seeds will not only help to create vibrant habitats, but they will also play a crucial role in protecting our precious water resources. Our dedicated Master Watershed Stewards will deploy these seeds at project sites and share them during educational programs, empowering Pennsylvania residents to transform their own yards into flourishing native oases that attract butterflies, bees, birds, and other wildlife.
Spreading native plant seeds across our landscape yields a multitude of benefits—from nurturing wildlife and safeguarding water resources to bolstering local economies. Native trees, shrubs, and plants enhance air and water quality, diminish stormwater runoff and pollution, and enrich properties for all to enjoy. The benefits of your donation for native seeds include:
- Expanding essential habitats for pollinators like butterflies and bees, as well as countless resident and migratory bird species, by offering safe nesting sites and year-round food sources.
- Increasing diversity among beneficial insects and wildlife, introducing new birds to your yard that rely on caterpillars to feed their young, alongside plants that offer visual interest through every season.
- Reducing the need for watering to help conserve our precious water resources.
- Lessening fertilizer needs.
- Stabilizing stream bank soil to prevent erosion.
- Cooling stream temperatures through shading maintains higher oxygen levels that benefit fish and other aquatic organisms. Streamside trees also provide vital food sources when their leaves drop in the fall.
- Filtering out harmful pollutants, such as chemical residue and road salt, helps keep our ecosystems healthier.
As development continues to encroach upon our state, lawns and non-native plants are replacing natural habitats, threatening the survival of fireflies, butterflies, birds, and other wildlife. You can make a difference! Join our passionate Master Watershed Stewards as they work to restore biodiversity and protect our vital waterway ecosystems. A donation of $50 will help seed approximately 5,445 sq ft.
Our Master Watershed Stewards are trained, passionate volunteers working within your communities to preserve the quality and beauty of our waterways. Since their inception in 2013, they have collectively:
- Volunteered an astounding 198,428 hours
- Planted 104,000 native trees, shrubs, and plants
Your support is critical for continuing this vital work. Please consider donating today. No amount is too small, and every single dollar is deeply appreciated! Together, let's sow the seeds of change for a healthier, more vibrant environment!
