We have reached our maximum capacity of 50 applicants and are starting a waiting list for the training year of 2021.

2021 Volunteer Training Program Application -- Due by March 8, 2021

Thank you for your interest in the Sound Water Stewards of Island County volunteer training program. The program will provide 90 hours of college-level instruction and provide volunteer opportunities focused on the shorelines and marine ecosystems in and around Island County. In addition, trainees will dedicate at least 10 hours during the first summer to hands-on projects.

During the first two years, all trainees agree to complete 100 additional hours post graduation (preferred as 50 hours per year) over the next two years working on Sound Water Stewards’ projects focused on education, community outreach, stewardship, and citizen science including approved projects sponsored by other environmental programs.

Classes will be held virtually via Zoom from approximately 9:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M on Thursdays. Training is slated to begin April 8, 2021--May 20, 2021, and continue from September 9, 2021--October 21, 2021. Training will also include pre-prescribed viewings of online content and certain individual and group assignments.

Small, socially distanced field trip opportunities will be scheduled on “off” class days in and around Island County (Camano and Whidbey Island), and are supplemental to the online curriculum but are not required for completion of training in the year 2021. All programming is done following the Island County Department of Health and State Parks COVID safety standards, including social distancing, sanitizing, and mask requirements.

Applications must be received by March 8th, 2021 to be considered. Enrollment is aimed at an even mix of applicants from both islands, however, it is not required for applicants to reside in Island County. Each candidate will be selected on the basis of the application and an informal interview. There is a $200.00 fee per person to offset the cost of training including training tools, which are bundled into the fee. Fees are due on the first day of class after acceptance into the program.

All applicants must submit to a national “Background Check” and must include a photocopy of a valid Washington driver’s license or valid Washington ID card. All participants will be required to sign a participant waiver, and a photo release form (acceptance or denial of the use of such photos).

Our goal is to encourage participation. If the fee alone presents a problem, scholarships are available. For information about Sound Water Stewards of Island County and the training, visit our website: soundwaterstewards.org/training/ or contact training@soundwaterstewards.org

Sound Water Stewards does not discriminate on the basis of race, disability, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, military status, or any other protected classification. SWS receives financial support from Lighthouse Environmental Programs.

Please fill out entirely and submit, you will receive your response to edit in the email provided.