Charly McConnell Greehthaler- Water Resource Agent
As our fall temperatures decrease, making time outside more pleasant, take advantage of this time and get outdoors! One program that aims at doing just that is the SC Adopt-a-Stream (SC AAS) program. This citizen science program is a joint effort between SC DHEC and Clemson University, training volunteers to help collect valuable data for SC. Having adequate data is essential in helping make the best management decisions for our water resources.
Participants can attend the following free training to become certified volunteers:
- Freshwater
- Macroinvertebrates
- Tidal Saltwater
Training is offered year-round and throughout the state!*Find a Training Near You! – https://www.clemson.edu/public/watershed/scaas/get-trained/events.html As a trainer for the freshwater portion of this program, I work to help train new volunteers, assist current volunteers with sampling, and offer hands-on lessons for youth. Data collected during this training include water temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and bacteria. Once the data is collected, it is entered into an online database.
*View the database here! – https://scaas.app.clemson.edu/home.php
Trained volunteers are expected to sample monthly at a stream of their choice. What about the cost? Well, the training is free, and volunteers can also check out sampling kits each month, so this program is at little cost for the volunteers! This program is perfect for families, neighborhoods, or other groups/clubs to participate together! It is also great for those who have a stream on their property, within their community, or a public stream nearby. Regardless of your situation, this program welcomes all who have the desire to help protect our SC water resources!
If you are interested in participating in an SC Adopt-a-Stream Freshwater workshop or your school would like a modified lesson, please contact Charly Greenthaler at charlym@clemson.edu or (803) 520-1679.
Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or family status and is an equal opportunity employer.
