URBANA, Ill. — Water moves us. Every day, rain nourishes fields of growing crops, and rivers steadily flow through natural areas and communities until, eventually, drinking water trickles out of faucets into our homes, schools, and businesses. Everyone on the planet is affected by this vital resource, particularly the water that collects in their regional watershed. 

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. A watershed is the land where all water drains across the surface or underground toward the nearest water body, such as ponds, rivers, lakes, or oceans.

The Illinois-Indiana Master Watershed Steward Program offered by University of Illinois Extension connects community members with their local waterways and empowers them with information so they can make a difference through environmental conservation efforts.   

“Sustaining and restoring natural resources is a priority for Illinois Extension, and the Master Watershed Stewards Program joins and expands on our volunteer network of Master Naturalists and Climate Stewards who are doing valuable environmental work,” said Shibu Kar, Extension’s assistant dean of natural resources, environment, and energy. “Together, we’re helping Illinois communities become more resilient by conserving critical water resources.” 

Illinois launched this new program in the fall of 2024, starting with a cohort in Boone County. For eight weeks, participants are learning how natural water systems work from scientists, researchers, and watershed management professionals. Topics include water quality science and the impacts of climate change, invasive species, and agriculture on water bodies. After completing training, participants connect with local partners to engage in restoration science, community science, and educational programs.

The program was developed in collaboration with Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, Purdue University, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and other partners.

Learn more about the Illinois Extension Master Watershed Steward program at go.illinois.edu/WatershedStewards. To find out if an Extension office in your area is hosting a training, please reach out to your local Illinois Extension office.

Extension’s natural resources, environment, and energy program provides research-based education for awareness and action to sustain healthy environments and ecosystems that support quality living and resilient communities. Extension staff empower people across Illinois to make a difference through the volunteer programs Master Naturalists, Climate Stewards, and Master Watershed Stewards.