Stream Watch
Stream Watch, founded by the U.S. Forest Service in 1994, is a national award winning volunteer program that promotes river stewardship on two world-class sockeye salmon fisheries on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula –the Russian and Kenai Rivers. Trained Stream Watch volunteers have been protecting the Russian River and upper Kenai River for over 15 years resulting in a more sustainable fishery. The program has become so effective it is now expanding down to the lower Kenai River.
After years of use and thousands of anglers and visitors, the rivers need your help to erase the marks left on the highly valued natural and cultural resources that exist. Your presence, your concern and your Stream Watch efforts will have a lasting effect. There are two ways for you to get involved:
Stream Watch Stewards—One day stewardship events
Stream Watch Ambassadors—On-going stewardship opportunity
Stream Watch Stewards
Calling all Stewards! We are looking for groups of all ages and abilities who can commit to at least one day (June-Sept) on the river. Stewards help with easy to moderate projects including collecting wildlife endangering debris, constructing monofilament line recycling containers, mending habitat fences and aiding in other restoration efforts. A variety of opportunities are available throughout the summer!
Be the change! Spend a few hours making a huge impact on local rivers. Training and supplies are provided for a great day in the great outdoors. This opportunity is great for individuals, families, scout groups, clubs and businesses. Contact Lisa to learn more about upcoming opportunities and to schedule your group today!
Stream Watch Ambassadors
Ambassadors are everyday people providing an extraordinary day on the river! After attending a mandatory training, Stream Watch Ambassadors are outfitted with the knowledge and supplies to walk the rivers sharing information and enthusiasm to protect Kenai Peninsula Rivers. In addition to collecting wildlife endangering trash and completing salmon saving fencing projects, Ambassadors educate river users on the importance of riverside plants, bear awareness, ethical angling, and agency regulations. All of the training, supplies and on-going support are provided for a successful Stream Watch season. In 2010, Ambassadors spent collected more than 400 pounds of garbage and engaged over 2,500 people!
Make a difference! Become a Stream Watch Ambassador this summer! Ambassadors must be physically fit individuals who are 16 years of age or older and are interested in making a difference on local rivers. Ambassadors are required to attend an orientation (call to schedule) and commit to a minimum of 3 volunteer days (July-Sept) on the river. Not from the Soldotna area? Campsites are available on a first come, first served basis. To start your adventure as an Ambassador, contact Lisa today!
Ambassador Webpage
This webpage has been developed for ambassadors participating in the Stream Watch program. You'll find resources including Stream Watch sites, volunteer calender, and more!
For more information or to register:
Lisa Beranek
Stream Watch Coordinator
Kenai Watershed Forum
(907)398-4304
StreamWatch@kenaiwatershed.org
Thank you!
Stream Watch Partners
The Stream Watch program relies heavily on support from dedicated volunteers and is made possible through support from several partners including Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Alaska Geographic, Alaska Recreation Management, Alaska State Parks, City of Kenai, City of Soldotna, ConocoPhillips, Kenai River Sportfishing Association, Kenai Peninsula Borough, Kenai Watershed Forum, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and the USDA Forest Service. The program is also made possible through generous support from the Alaska Sustainable Salmon Fund.