Because watersheds are determined by the landscape and not political borders, watersheds often cross municipal, county and state boundaries. By using a watershed perspective, all potential sources of pollution entering a waterway can be better identified and evaluated. Just as important, all stakeholders in the watershed can be involved in the process.
Watershed stakeholders are those who live, work or engage in recreation in the watershed. They have a direct interest in the quality of the watershed and will be affected by planned efforts to address water quality issues. Individuals, groups and organizations within a watershed can become involved as stakeholders in initiatives to protect and improve local water quality.
Stakeholder involvement is critical for selecting, designing and implementing management measures to successfully improve water quality.
To support the need for stakeholder involvement, the Texas Watershed Steward program was developed to provide science-based, watershed education to help citizens identify and take action to address local water quality impairments.
Texas Watershed Stewards learn about the nature and function of watersheds, potential impairments, and strategies for watershed protection.
For more information or upcoming workshops, visit tws.tamu.edu
