Penn State Extension will offer informational webinars about the Master Watershed Steward program, which educates and empowers volunteers to carry out watershed projects and education in their communities. The identical sessions will occur on Thursdays, Jan. 9 and 16, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. It is designed for those who want to make a positive difference in their communities, have a keen interest in the environment, are willing to learn and teach, and have time to volunteer.

The webinar will share information about the Master Watershed Steward program training, structure, commitment, and requirements; the types of projects in which the Master Watershed Steward volunteer team engages; program partners; and Penn State Extension and the land-grant university system.

The Master Watershed Stewards' projects include teaching adults and children about water quality, wildlife habitats, and the environment; developing educational materials; organizing and conducting educational events, stream cleanups, and invasive plant removal projects; designing and maintaining demonstration gardens; conducting stream monitoring projects and research; researching and writing newsletters and online articles; and partnering with municipal officials on projects such as bioswales, rain gardens, native meadows, and other green stormwater management solutions.

The workshop is free of charge, but registration is required by Wednesday, Jan. 8. For more information and to register, visit https://extension.psu.edu/ and search for "Master Watershed Steward Training Info for Dauphin, Lancaster, and Lebanon Counties." Questions may be directed to program coordinator Jim Lewis at jml8093@psu.edu.