UA News

The UA Cooperative Extension is seeking applicants for the Phoenix Master Watershed Steward Program to become volunteers who share their knowledge about water issues.

The University of Arizona Cooperative Extension is seeking applicants for the Phoenix Master Watershed Steward Program to become volunteers who share their knowledge about water issues.

The course, which has not been available in the Phoenix metropolitan area for the past two years, enables participants to get involved with local water resources while learning how to make more informed decisions related to their own land, community and watersheds.

According to Summer Waters, assistant agent of water resources at the UA Maricopa County Cooperative Extension, individuals that complete the course enjoy opportunities to work with community organizations – including watershed partnerships and state agencies – to implement projects to monitor, maintain and restore the health of Arizona's watersheds.

"Ongoing volunteer projects include photopoint monitoring in the Tonto National Forest and Saguaro National Park, riparian assessments along urban and preserved corridors and outreach at Arizona Project WET Water Festivals," Waters said. "Graduates of this class will also have the opportunity to volunteer as docents at the new Rio Salado Audubon center."

This intensive 10-week course will educate and train participants about local watershed issues and water resources in Arizona. Participants will learn the basics of hydrology, wetland functions, climate, geology, ecology, water quality and water management among other topics.  No previous experience is required.

Classes will be taught by UA faculty as well as other professionals from around the state. Those who complete the class will be offered volunteer opportunities with Audubon Arizona.

"Many of these practices can help improve the health of the watershed, while also helping participants and their community save money and reduce waste," Waters said.

"They will become a resource for their family, friends, neighbors and greater community."

"Anyone who is interested in getting involved with their community and volunteering" is a candidate to participate in the course, Waters said. Most participants are generally people over the age of 18 with an interest in the environment.

Classes begin Tuesday, July 28 in Phoenix and will be held every Tuesday morning from 9 a.m. to noon through September at the new Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center in central Phoenix. 

The cost is $50.00, which includes the Master Watershed Steward guide, training manual and all handouts. Scholarships are available. 

A maximum of 30 people will be accepted for the course and applications are due by July 15.