This spring, University of Illinois Extension is launching the Master Watershed Stewards Program to be hosted in McLean County. The Illinois-Indiana Master Watershed Steward Program is an 8-week journey designed to empower community members as a guardian of our precious natural ecosystems. Through engaging, science-based education by local experts and group activities, participants gain the tools and knowledge to protect and conserve our land and water resources. The course will run from April 1 through May 25, meeting in person at the McLean Extension Office on Tuesday nights from 6 to 8 p.m. For $84, participants receive all training materials and program support through the 20 hours of coursework. Topics include water quality science and the impacts of climate change, invasive species, and agriculture. After completing training, participants can connect with local partners to engage in restoration science, community science, and educational programs.  

Our three counties, McLean, Livingston, and Woodford are included in the Sangamon, Mackinaw, and Vermilion watersheds. It is vital to protect and preserve the rivers, lakes, and streams that run throughout our communities. The health of a watershed is tied to the health of a community, and understanding where water comes from, how it moves, and what impacts its quality and quantity is crucial to maintaining safe and sustainable water resources now and in the future.