Activities Influence Decision Making

The Stream Team Program provides an avenue, for citizens interested in our aquatic resources, to influence decision making in their communities. Many people form or join stream teams because there is a body of water they use recreationally that they are interested in preserving for future generations to enjoy. The first steps in protecting these resources are through litter clean-ups and water quality monitoring. These tools give citizens the information they need to protect their interests when new activities are proposed in their stream’s watershed.

Water quality monitoring is the primary tool individuals can use to shape decision making in their watershed of concern. The Stream Team has set up guidelines and personal assistance from Stream Team Coordinators to help support citizens interested in undertaking this process. Monitoring streams consists of basic data collection that gives individuals the means to identify and address pollution issues. Monitoring consists of gathering information regarding the watershed, riparian zones, streambanks, stream channels, fish habitat, and water quality. With this information, pollution issues can be identified, corrected, or even prevented.

Forming or joining a Stream Team also allows individuals with common concerns to get together and work towards a common goal. Community decision making is driven by the voices of those in the community and the voices of many are louder than the voices of one. To get the most out of your Stream Team be sure to help focus decision making in your community to protect our aquatic resources and benefit the many stakeholders in the watershed.