Become a Certified Water Steward in 2026: A Chance to Deepen Your Environmental Impact

Are you looking for a meaningful way to expand your environmental volunteer work and make a lasting impact on local water health? The Freshwater Society is taking its respected Minnesota Water Stewards program statewide in 2026, and the Washington Conservation District (WCD) will be training and supporting a brand-new cohort of volunteers right here in our region.

What Is the Water Stewards Program?

The Minnesota Water Stewards program equips community members with the knowledge and skills they need to protect and preserve our water resources. Volunteers complete 40 hours of online coursework covering water science, policy, and public engagement. Once certified, Water Stewards continue their involvement through hands-on, community-driven projects such as:

• Leading habitat restoration efforts

• Building and caring for gravel bed tree nurseries

• Assisting with youth and adult environmental education

• Sharing information and resources with schools, neighborhoods, and faith communities

• …and much more!

Many graduates go on to serve on citizen advisory committees, watershed boards, SWCD boards, or even step into careers in water and natural resource management.

Attend an Info Session

Curious to learn more? Join one of two 40-minute online information sessions on Thursday, December 11, 2025 (12 pm or 5 pm). You’ll learn about the program, class schedule, volunteer expectations, and how to apply.

➡️ Register here: https://minnesotawaterstewards.org/info-sessions

The WCD will host in-person events and offer local support for Water Stewards throughout 2026. Funding from the St. Croix Valley Foundation will also help participants carry out capstone projects and other stewardship activities.

Why Sustainable Stillwater MN Is Helping Share This Opportunity

While this is not a Sustainable Stillwater MN program, we strongly support initiatives that strengthen environmental leadership and community engagement in the St. Croix Valley. The Water Stewards program aligns closely with our mission of helping residents protect and enhance the natural resources we all depend on. By sharing this opportunity, we aim to help connect passionate local volunteers with impactful training and support that benefits our entire region.

If you’ve been looking for a way to take your environmental volunteerism to the next level, becoming a Water Steward might be the perfect next step.