Beach Watcher Training
WHY BECOME A BEACH WATCHER?
Maybe you are interested in learning how to protect and preserve your favorite beach. Or perhaps you are concerned about development and its impact on our natural resources. Maybe you would like to better understand the geology and biology of these beautiful islands and surround yourself with terrific new people who share your love of nature. Or maybe you just want to give something back.
Whatever the reason, as a Beach Watcher trainee you will work a bit, learn a lot and have more fun than you ever imagined. And you will make a difference in the community.
Beach Watchers are dedicated environmental educators. Our goal is to lead our community in the protection and preservation of the natural world through science and educational outreach.
THE TRAINING
Training is the best part. Beach Watcher training is a significant commitment - over 100 hours of expert training from top professionals. About a third of the training includes guided outdoor field trips to locations such as Deception Pass and Cama Beach State Parks, Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Preserve, Whidbey Watershed Stewards Outdoor Classroom and the Penn Cove Shellfish facility.
The focus of training is water quality but we also explore watersheds and groundwater, marine biology and oceanography, salmon and nearshore habitats, climate change, noxious weeds, agriculture, forestry, waste reduction, recycling, sustainable living, native plants and wildlife, intertidal monitoring, coastal geology and more.
NEXT TRAINING will be in 2009!
contact CONTACT(Kylee Allen :: BW Training).
THE COST OF TRAINING
The training isn't free but it's a terrific deal that works two ways. There is no tuition but a $40 fee to offset printing costs. In return for this unique educational opportunity, all new Beach Watchers agree to sign a contract committing to 50 hours of volunteer community outreach for two consecutive years.
There are many ways to fulfill the time commitment and the hours add up quickly. It is fun, it is easy, and we can help you can tailor your service to your talents, interests and comfort level. Some volunteers participate in intertidal monitoring of beaches. Others speak at schools and community meetings, lead beach walks, give nature talks or troll the shorelines for trash and noxious weeds.
Apply Now (2009 applications to be available soon)
The first step is to fill out an application and mail it in. We will then contact you to arrange for a short interview. Don't be intimidated by the interview, it is just a way to make sure everyone is aware of the type of commitment expected by volunteers who are accepted into the training class.
We are flexible and will work with you to find the best ways to use your skills, interests and knowledge.
More Info
Next Training:
- Camano - spring 2008
- Whidbey - fall 2008