A Watershed Movement: Why Now Is the Time to Act in Anne Arundel County

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Anne Arundel Watershed Stewards Academy (WSA) is an environmental nonprofit impact organization building capacity in Anne Arundel County by training community leaders to help neighbors reduce pollution in our local creeks and rivers. 

In Anne Arundel County, more than 600,000 people live within our watersheds. Every storm drain, every yard, every street leads to our shared waterways. That means the solutions to today’s environmental challenges don’t live somewhere “out there” - they start right here, with us. 

And right now, a powerful shift is underway. 

A Movement Whose Time Has Come

Despite growing awareness of environmental issues, two-thirds of Anne Arundel County residents remain disconnected from action. In fact, according to the 2023 Stewardship Indicator Survey about two thirds of residents don’t realize that their daily habits like fertilizer use, littering, or stormwater runoff contribute directly to pollution. Many have never participated in a cleanup or restoration effort. 

At the same time, something remarkable is happening: 

  • 57% of residents say pollution affects them personally 
  • 63% want to do more 
  • 80% believe we can fix local water pollution, if we work together 

The message is clear: People are ready. They just need a way in. 

That’s where Watershed Stewards Academy’s Watershed Movement comes in. 

From Awareness to Action 

This movement is about more than education, it’s about connection, empowerment, and community-led change. 

Environmental challenges today are more complex than ever. From stormwater runoff to climate impacts, solutions require not just technical expertise but widespread community engagement. One of the most effective ways to drive that engagement is through local leadership, specifically, trained Watershed Stewards who inspire and mobilize their neighbors. WSA has trained over 400 Watershed Stewards in Anne Arundel County since 2009. 

But here’s the gap: many communities in Anne Arundel County still don’t have a Watershed Steward. 

Our Watershed Movement aims to change that by recruiting, training, and supporting leaders in every corner of the County; ensuring that no community is left without access to the knowledge, tools, and support needed to protect their environment. 

Expanding Equity in Environmental Leadership 

Historically, environmental programs have often reached those with more time and resources. But clean water and a healthy environment are essential for everyone. That’s why this movement is intentionally evolving. 

In partnership with communities that have been historically marginalized, a new stewardship model is being developed. One that reflects diverse experiences, honors local knowledge, and aligns with community-driven goals. By directing training and restoration resources where they are most needed, our Watershed Movement is working to ensure that environmental leadership is inclusive, equitable, and impactful. 

Small Actions, Big Impact 

It’s easy to feel like environmental problems are too big to solve, but the truth is, collective action is powerful. 

When individuals change daily habits, when neighbors come together, and when communities are supported by strong local leadership, real change happens. 

And there are simple ways you can be part of it: 

  • Bring someone to an environmental action event: Whether it’s a workshop, cleanup, or community gathering, inviting a friend, family member, or neighbor is one of the easiest ways to grow the movement. Change spreads through connection. 
  • Share our content and resources: Help reach the two-thirds of residents who are not yet engaged. Share stewardship tips, stories, and opportunities through your social networks, community groups, or workplace. Using your voice is the first step toward action. 
  • Donate to support the movement: Your support helps train new Watershed Stewards, expand outreach, and bring critical resources to communities across the County. Every contribution fuels local solutions. Make a gift today at aawsa.org/donate

The Future Is Local and It Starts With You

A healthier Anne Arundel County isn’t a distant goal, it’s a shared responsibility and an achievable future. The optimism is already here. The willingness is already here. Now, the opportunity is here too. 

A Watershed Movement is about turning that readiness into real, lasting impact - one person, one community, one action at a time. 

Join us. Because when we work together, we don’t just protect our environment, we transform it. Learn more at aawsa.org/watershed-movement. 

About Anne Arundel County Watershed Stewards Academy

Anne Arundel Watershed Stewards Academy (WSA) is an environmental nonprofit impact organization building capacity in Anne Arundel County by training Watershed Stewards to help neighbors reduce pollution in our local creeks and rivers. WSA envisions every community actively engaged to ensure a healthy environment for all. Our mission is to train and mobilize community leaders to drive change for sustainable landscapes and clean waters.