Master Water Stewards
The Freshwater Society developed the Master Water Steward program in 2013 in cooperation with Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD). Over 100 individuals have been trained in the MCWD as part of the program.
Master Water Stewards are sponsored by their local watershed district or municipality and are educated about water quality issues in their local region. They put their training to work by implementing a clean water capstone project, and they continue to serve their community by volunteering their time to maintain their certification.
Master Water Stewards receive over 50 hours of classroom time and online learning taught by experts covering a wide variety of topics, including hydrology, water policy, community engagement, and residential stormwater planning. The program also emphasizes continuous learning, and stewards must complete eight hours of continuing education each year to maintain their certification.
Master Water Stewards are guided through a capstone project after completing training. Capstone projects include the installation of a project that captures rainfall, allows m ore water to soak into the ground, and includes a public outreach component. Examples of capstone projects include rain garden installations, permeable paver installations, and hands-on projects with young people.
Once certified, Master Water Stewards are required to volunteer 50 hours of community service. In subsequent years, they are required to complete 25 hours of community service to maintain their certification. The requirement for community service makes stewards important community advocates for clean water projects, and stewards have used their training to become community organizers, educators, clean water advocates, and community leaders.
Learn more about the program and how to become a Master Water Steward.
