Join Stream Stewards and help improve the health of Kitsap’s streams

(Port Orchard, WA) - Volunteers can learn about our natural environment and help restore Kitsap’s streams through the Stream Stewards program. Training begins on January 21 and involves in class and “hands on” instruction.

During the training, volunteers will learn about the importance of native plants and fish and how to care for our natural environment. After training, volunteers can participate in projects such as removing noxious weeds, planting native plants along stream banks, and monitoring stream health.

Arno Bergstrom, Stream Stewards program manager and Director of the WSU Kitsap County Extension office, says “Our volunteers want to make a difference in the community. Last spring, fifteen volunteers completed the Stream Stewards training. We hope more people will sign up for Stream Stewards this year. Anyone interested in learning about water quality problems and solutions is welcome to attend.”

Stream Stewards training will take place at Klahowya Secondary School, 7607 NW Newberry Hill Road in Silverdale. The training costs $40 which covers the cost of class materials and your own “Stream Steward Volunteer” name badge.

Training dates are:

• Saturday, January 21, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

• Tuesday, January 24, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

• Tuesday, January 31, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

• Tuesday, February 7, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

• Saturday, February 11, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

• Saturday, March 24, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

• Saturday, April 21, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

For more information or to register, visit WSU’s website at www.kitsap.wsu.edu. Click here for a flyer on WSU’s volunteer programs.

The Stream Stewards program is funded by the Kitsap County Surface and Stormwater Management Program. Photos of last year’s Stream Stewards are available on flickr.