Save Our Streams Field Certification
The Will Dilg Chapter invites community members, conservation enthusiasts, and volunteers to participate in FREE IWLA Save Our Streams training on Saturday, April 26. This hands-on workshop, led by Jennifer Biederman of Minnesota Trout Unlimited, is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to assess and protect local stream health. Learn more about where the Chapter’s monitoring sites are and learn about how to get involved.
Save Our Streams is a nationally recognized program that trains volunteers to gather data around water quality by studying aquatic life and stream conditions. Participants will learn how to collect and identify macroinvertebrates, evaluate habitat quality, and interpret findings to better understand the ecological health of local waterways.
This training is ideal for anglers, paddlers, students, educators, and anyone passionate about conserving freshwater resources. No prior experience is necessary, and all training materials will be provided. Jenny recommends completing the Save Our Streams Online Certification in advance which can be accessed here: https://iwla.org/save-our-streams-online-certification/
By participating, volunteers can play a direct role in safeguarding regional streams and contributing valuable data that supports conservation efforts and informed decision-making.
Event Details:
What: Save Our Streams Volunteer Training
When: Saturday, April 26, 2026 | 9am – 2pm | 2 hrs Classroom + 2 hrs Field Training
Where: Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota (SMUMN)
Science & Learning Center (SLC) – Main Floor
700 Terrace Heights, Winona, MN 55987
Hosted by: Will Dilg Chapter in Winona of the Izaak Walton League of America (IWLA)
Lunch will be provided.
Participants are encouraged to dress for outdoor conditions, including sturdy footwear suitable for stream environments. Bring waders or neoprene booties if you have them.
Space may be limited to 25 participants, and advance registration is recommended.
Go to https://save-our-streams-an-iwla-community-science-program.cheddarup.com or email president@willdilg-iwla.org to register.
Your kit will include a bottle containing 25 nitrate test strips which you can use to test your water source(s) throughout the year. You’ll also receive postcards explaining how to use your nitrate test strips and how to share your Nitrate Watch results on the Clean Water Hub.
Your kit will include four test strips so you can test your waterway throughout the season. You’ll also receive a chart to help you interpret your results and a postcard with instructions for completing a Salt Watch test and reporting your findings.