Stormwater Quality Leadership Program

The Stormwater Quality Leadership Program empowers youth to investigate the impacts of stormwater runoff on their local environment through hands-on monitoring and management.

Program Overview

This 21-session stormwater program provides engaging, real-world environmental education for students, introducing them to the critical impacts of stormwater runoff pollution on local ecosystems and water resources. By learning and implementing stormwater management practices, students develop technical knowledge and skills for future careers in the water quality industry. Learn more about the skills students learn, the projects they accomplish, and the reports they produce by the end of the program:

Learn more

Phases

Part 1: Discovery

An introduction to the environmental impacts of stormwater runoff pollution and career-based skill development in the water quality industry.

Topics vary depending on grade level, but generally include:

  • The History of Water Quality
  • Watersheds and Boundaries
  • The Path of Stormwater
  • Anatomy of Storm Drains
  • Urban vs. Natural Watersheds
  • Common Pollutants
  • Catch Basin Maintenance
  • Stormwater Sampling
  • And more!

Students conduct visual observations, collect runoff samples, and analyze data from in-class labs and certified lab results.

Topics vary depending on grade level, but generally include:

  • Water Industry Careers
  • Environmental Standards
  • Serial Dilution
  • And more!

Students work together to design solutions for reducing runoff pollution including structural solutions and peer messaging campaigns. Explore some of their BMP projects here.

The young leaders prepare and present publicly their final recommendations in a Water Quality Improvement Plan for the school site.

Program Benefits

Integration

Hands-on project-based learning that easily integrates into curriculum and aligns with NGSS standards

Connection

Connects students with community through public outreach

Career Exposure

Exposes students to career pathways including municipal public works, water agencies, and environmental engineering firms

Technical Skills

Develops critical data analysis and engineering design skills

Passion and Confidence

Develops passion for environmental leadership as well as confidence in public speaking

Experience

Builds experiences and skills for resumes and applications

Program Features

Comprehensive educational materials customized for the local watershed, school site, teacher, and experience level of students

Digital files customized with information from local agencies, along with water systems and local environmental concerns

Continued 1:1 teacher consultation with certified water quality expert

Includes all necessary equipment for school site water testing, with personal protective equipment for class

Final report development materials and presentation planning