Stroud Water Research Center Recognized with 2025 Outstanding Partner Award

The Penn State Master Watershed Stewards in York County proudly recognized Stroud Water Research Center as their 2025 Outstanding Partner at their Winter Gathering on March, 1, 2026. Dr. John Jackson, Senior Research Scientist at Stroud, accepted the award on behalf of the Stroud Center.

Stroud is a top-notch freshwater research center advancing critical research not only here in Pennsylvania, but across the world. Their work strengthens our understanding of freshwater systems and helps protect these vital resources for future generations.

Penn State Extension is incredibly grateful for Stroud's ongoing commitment to educating and mentoring the Master Watershed Stewards each year. Since 2016, Stroud has provided training for Stewards at their campus. Stewards spend an entire day getting hands-on experience in water chemistry and macroinvertebrate biology. They are also introduced to riparian buffer ecology, stream and watershed impairment, emerging water-quality concerns, and restoration efforts. Stroud consistently goes above and beyond to share their knowledge and expertise, empowering volunteers with the science and skills needed to make meaningful impacts.

Our partnership with Stroud also includes monitoring streams for the impacts of road salts, specifically tracking chloride levels and conductivity. Stewards participate in the annual Winter Salt Snapshot, a community science initiative in which volunteers collect and test stream samples to map road salt pollution. In addition, York County Master Watershed Stewards are building two EnviroDIY Monitoring Stations as part of Stroud's WikiWatershed initiative, which helps people advance their knowledge and stewardship of fresh water. The monitoring stations (funded by a grant from the Susquehanna River Basin Commission) will expand the ability to track important water quality parameters in York County. Stroud has provided direction and guidance in these important monitoring efforts whenever needed.

Partnerships are the key to building a successful Master Watershed Steward Program. Stroud Water Research Center is not only a leader in freshwater science, but they are also trusted partners dedicated to providing a comprehensive picture of freshwater research and application to the Master Watershed Stewards and are key advocates for protecting and restoring freshwater ecosystems.

Find more information about the York County Master Watershed Steward Program.