Watershed Academy
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In 2015, Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council created the Watershed Academy. This program engages high school science students and provides them an opportunity to become experts in their local watershed. The initial program included five schools. The program has now grown to 13 high schools in the following cities:
The Watershed Academy has already proven to be a great opportunity for high school students to learn about their local watershed and assume leadership roles in their community through volunteering time, knowledge, and skills. The program has also inspired students in choosing a career path and as they prepare to attend college. The Watershed Academy also engages other local resource partners, including Little Traverse Conservancy, Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians Natural Resources Department, University of Michigan Biological Station, Friends of the Jordan River, and Friends of the Boyne River.
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Students learn about:
Below you will see a video of students sorting macroinvertebrates during the field monitoring session.
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The Watershed Academy was a great experience, and I am so thankful that I had the chance to join. Coming from a very small school, we don’t have many learning opportunities like this where we can learn both in the classroom and out in the field. - Alyssa Silveus It's been a pleasure and my experience at the Watershed Academy has actually inspired me to go to Lake Superior State University to become a conservation biologist! The program helped me find something I'm passionate about and I really appreciate the opportunity. Thank you so much! - Abby Boyd |
I started the club not even knowing what a watershed is. I only looked at it as an opportunity to escape the prison they call school. It ended up meaning so much more. Who knew there are 3 groups of macroinvertebrates, sensitive, somewhat sensitive, and tolerant? And, who knew they could determine our streams quality? I had no idea how much one hike could open my eyes. Now, thanks to the Watershed Academy, I understand how much my 30 minute shower, fertilization, animal feces, and pollution can negatively affect our water quality. So, I thank them, not only for opening my eyes, but also for giving me fun memories and friends who I know care! - Courtney Davis |
It opened my eyes to not only caring for our environment but, it has also has sparked my passion for educational and career opportunities. - Rebecca Drenth
Current support for the Watershed Academy comes from:
• 4Front Credit Union
• Charlevoix County Community Foundation
• Circuit Controls
• EJ
• Evening Star Joinery
• Lake Charlevoix Association
• Patagonia x Moosejaw
• Spartan Nash for Family Fare in East Jordan and Bellaire
• Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council
• 4Front Credit Union
• Charlevoix County Community Foundation
• Circuit Controls
• EJ
• Evening Star Joinery
• Lake Charlevoix Association
• Patagonia x Moosejaw
• Spartan Nash for Family Fare in East Jordan and Bellaire
• Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council
The Watershed Academy is a youth education program designed and administered by Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council and coordinated by Eli Baker, Education and Outreach Specialist.
To get Watershed Academy in your school or to help with a field day, contact Eli Baker
To become a program sponsor or for more information on how you can become involved, contact Gail Gruenwald.
To become a program sponsor or for more information on how you can become involved, contact Gail Gruenwald.
