Frequently Asked Questions
Can Anyone take your course? Can I join your certification course if i don’t live in Anne Arundel County?
Anne Arundel Watershed Stewards Academy is able to train individuals who live, work, workship, or learn in Anne Arundel County, and who have a connection to a community (neighborhood, business, congregation, school, library, civic entity) that they plan to work with to create a healthier environment for all. Unfortunately, we are unable to train individuals who do not have a strong connection to Anne Arundel County. Instead, we encourage you to learn about other WSA’s in our area: University of Maryland Sea Grant: Watershed Stewards.
When does your 2024 class begin?
Our next class will begin in May 2024. Click here to view a tentative schedule of dates and session topics. We have completed recruitment for the 2024 class, and will not begin our next round of recruitment until early 2025.
How do I Enroll in your Certification Course?
Prior to submitting an application to participate in the course, prospective Steward Candidates must attend an Information Session. Virtual information sessions last about an hour and are designed to provide detailed information about the Certification Course and the role of a Watershed Steward.
Please note that attendance at one of our Information Sessions is required prior to submitting an application.
How long does it take to become a Certified Watershed Steward?
For many years, WSA’s classes began in October. Sessions continued through Spring of the following year, and then from April to November, Steward Candidates worked on completing capstone projects in their communities. On this schedule, the certification process took about 13 months. A sample syllabus from our 2021-2022 Certification Course is available here: Class 14 Syllabus.
Since 2021, we have also hosted courses beginning in January, with Stewards attending sessions from January through May, and completing community projects from Spring through Fall of the same calendar year. On this schedule, certification takes about 11 months. A sample syllabus from our current 2023 course is available here: Class 15 Syllabus.
Please note that our 16th Class will have a compressed timeline: Stewards will begin their training in May and complete their capstone projects a few months later in the Fall. To accommodate this timeline while ensuring that Stewards complete capstone projects that are meaningful and impactful, we will be having members of the class work on projects we have identified at County Parks and Public Schools. More information will be available at our Information Sessions in 2024.
How much does this course cost?
The Certification Course costs $300. Partial and full scholarships are available for those who indicate a need on their application.
Will I have to pay for my own Capstone Project?
No. During the course, Steward Candidates learn to identify and apply for grants and other funding to secure money for their restoration projects. WSA also raises funds through private donations and grants to support parts of Steward Capstone Projects.
Does the Watershed Steward Certification expire?
Certified Stewards maintain their certification annually by:
Performing a minimum of 40 hours of community service in the form of Watershed Action
Completing an additional 8 Continuing Education Units
Watershed Stewards are also encouraged to attend networking events throughout the year.
Additional Questions?
Please fill out the form below if you have additional questions or would like to join our mailing list to receive updates about the course.