All watersheds in Texas are threatened by nonpoint sources (NPS) of pollution which are detrimental to the valuable water resources of the state. To help combat this threat, federal and state water resource management agencies have adopted a watershed-scale approach for managing water quality. One vital component of this approach involves engaging local stakeholders to become actively involved in planning and implementing water resource management and protection programs in their watershed.
To support this need for stakeholder involvement, the Texas Watershed Steward (TWS) program was initiated 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.
Public participation is the focus of the Texas Watershed Steward program. Active public participation in local watershed management efforts is critical in addressing local water quality problems and concerns. The program is open to all watershed residents including homeowners, business owners, agricultural producers, decision-makers, community leaders, and other citizens.
The TWS program is implemented through a partnership between The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB).
