University of Rhode Island

The URI Watershed Watch Program works with local governments, watershed, tribal and other organizations to assess water quality by recruiting and training volunteers to become citizen scientists. Research centers on long-term ecological monitoring of RI's fresh and salt water resources, including lakes, ponds, rivers, streams and coastal waters. This comprehensive program provides training, equipment, supplies, and analytical services tailored to organizational needs.

URI Nonpoint Education for Municipal Officials

offers training in the science, management, and regulation of water resources for community leaders and volunteer board members. Our goal is to provide decision makers with the skills and resources to identify local water quality problems and to adopt effective pollution controls. A variety of educational programs are offered throughout the year, ranging from evening or one day workshops to intensive, small group trainings that are tailored to meet the participants' interests and needs. We focus on use of Geographic Information Systems in watershed assessment conducted in partnership with communities. Technical assistance in protecting local watersheds is available to communities on a case-by-case basis.

The Watershed Hydrology Laboratoryat URI studies the role of riparian buffer zones and streams in watershed nitrogen cycling. Their goal is to protect and restore water quality through research and education on watershed processes. The Watershed Hydrology Laboratory works closely with the Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service (CSREES) Water Quality Program at the local, state and national levels. Their research results are incorporated into extension programming directed at decision makers, youth, underserved communities and general public alike.