Applications being accepted now for Sound Water Stewards training classes

Would you like to become a Sound Water Steward?

Maybe you are interested in learning how to protect and preserve your favorite beach. Maybe you are concerned about water quality, wildlife habitat or conservation. Maybe you would like to better understand the island geology and biology of our marine environment. Or maybe you would like to join others who share a love of nature and a desire to give something back to our island community.

Sound Water Stewards are trained volunteers working in and around Island County for a healthy, sustainable Puget Sound and Salish Sea environment through education, community outreach, stewardship and citizen science. The 2019 training program consists of at least 90 hours of expert educational sessions, guided field trips and hands-on practice, plus an additional 10 hours of volunteer time during the summer.

As a Sound Water Steward trainee, you will have the opportunity to learn a great deal, contribute to the community and have fun in the process. New members will contribute 100 hours of volunteer time over the first two years of membership.

Applications are now being accepted for the upcoming 2019 class. Training sessions will be held on Thursdays from March 14 to April 25 and from Sept. 12 to Oct. 24, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. A $150 registration fee covers training materials and expenses. Scholarships are available. The application deadline is Feb. 28, 2019.

Apply now. Don’t miss this exciting educational opportunity as well as the chance to join a fun community volunteer group. There are several ways to obtain more information and an application. Visit the website at http://soundwaterstewards.org/training or visit the Sound Water Stewards booth at Sound Water University on Feb. 2.