New Leadership Model
Eastern U.P. Water Guardians Help Monitor Water Quality

An innovative program in the eastern Upper Peninsula enlists the help of older citizens to help monitor the region’s water quality and protect the health of residents. The Eastern U.P. Water Guardians voluntarily monitor the region’s ground- and surface water to help identify potential problems.

Michigan Sea Grant’s Ron Kinnunen was one of several educators who conducted train-the-trainer sessions for the Water Guardian program in 2005. Kinnunen is also assisting in curriculum development, which covers water chemistry basics, watersheds, and common contaminants and their origins in rural areas.

Following training sessions on field sampling techniques and quality control, Water Guardians collect and submit water samples at local areas of concern. They also serve as knowledgeable resources for their communities. The efforts will help local units of government respond quickly to water quality problems at public beaches and other areas.

The Chippewa / East Mackinac Conservation District coordinates the Eastern U.P. Water Guardian Program, with funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and cooperation from educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and local government units.