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IDAH2O: MASTER WATER STEWARDS SERVING IDAHO THROUGH VOLUNTEER MONITORING

Extension Education

Ashley McFarland
Extension Educator
Michigan State University
Chatham

Abstract

\r\n Maintaining water quality integrity in the state of Idaho is necessary to ensure a safe water source for drinking, recreating and to support fisheries and wildlife.  Pollutants are loaded into water bodies each day which have the potential of threatening these uses.  Through education and outreach, citizens gain a better understanding of their interaction with the land and learn how to best preserve resources.  Water monitoring is an integral tool in this outreach; however, most programs once supported by state agencies have been cut or suspended due to budget shortfalls.  Monitoring by IDAH2O Master Water Stewards fills substantial gaps in data created by termination of these programs. IDAH2O was developed into a ‘Master’ program to make use of a highly successful Extension model.  IDAH2O volunteers receive training and in return, conduct monitoring in Idaho watersheds.  Collected data is published and used to inform citizens and agencies about watershed conditions.  IDAH2O targets established watershed groups that want to participate in organized water monitoring.  Extensive outreach has occurred with these groups to heighten their awareness of watershed processes and comprehension of results.  Since the program launch in fall 2010, over twenty volunteers have been certified, monitoring ten different watersheds.  In 2011, fifty Stewards will be added covering an additional fifteen watersheds.  Participants have noted an increase in knowledge and plan to be more participatory in watershed restoration efforts.

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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

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Authors: A.A. McFarland
  1. McFarland, A. Extension Educator, University of Idaho Extension, Idaho, 83861