Watershed Stewardship Program 2007
September 19th - November 14th, 2007
In the Fall of 2007, the Rhode Island Rivers Council (RIRC) offered its fourth Watershed Stewardship Program, which is a series of classes that provide interested citizens with the information and experience they need to become stewards for their watersheds. Beginning September 19th, a total of 10 classes were offered - eight on Wednesday evenings and two on Saturday mornings.
Interested citizens from throughout RI were invited to register and learn how to protect local rivers and watersheds. No prior experience was required.
In addition to the class, the RIRC developed a statewide Watershed Stewardship Manual. These resources include valuable materials on each of the class topics. While each Watershed Stewardship Program focuses on a different watershed in Rhode Island, the manual covers the entire state.
In 2007, the WSP focused on the Hunt River watershed, which includes parts of seven Rhode Island communities: Exeter, North Kingstown, East Greenwich, West Greenwich, Coventry, West Warwick, and Warwick. The watershed includes Hunt River, Potowomut River, and four major tributaries. The major tributary sub-watersheds are Sandhill Brook, Frenchtown Brook, Scrabbletown Brook, and Fry Brook.
Classes consisted of presentations, activities, and hands-on training led by experts in each field. Using examples from the Hunt River watershed, instructors provided information that could be applied to any watershed. Topics included:
- Introduction to Watershed Hydrology
- Wetland Plant Identification (FIELD)
- Water Quality Monitoring
- Water Quality Monitoring (FIELD)
- Drinking Water (with tour of water supply facility)
- Waste Water (with tour of wastewater facility)
- Conservation Development
- Migratory Fish Restoration
- Impacts on Narragansett Bay
- Policy & Community Involvement