In some ways, NSEA’s Nooksack River Stewards Internship through the Future Leaders of Whatcom Waters (FLOW) Program and in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, began much like it did in previous years: with team building games outside, practice leading Guided River Hikes, and sessions spent learning native plant identification. But in other ways, it was clear that the summer of 2020 would look dramatically different for this year’s cohort of seven interns. The group completed orientation from chairs spaced six feet apart on the lawn outside, wore masks while touring NSEA’s facilities, and discussed at length the ways in which COVID-19 might impact their ability to lead community outreach-- the heart of River Stewards programming. Although this summer proved to be an exercise in adaptability for NSEA, the interns managed to find alternative modes of community engagement, complete habitat restoration projects, and explore various topics in professional development.

Restoration and Office Projects

Due to Whatcom County’s coronavirus restrictions, River Steward Interns focused the first part of their summer on restoring habitat in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, revamping NSEA’s community Library, and pursuing individual side projects. After only two weekends, interns had already removed 1,580 pounds of trash and non-native species from riparian corridors along the Nooksack River, surpassing the goal of 1,000 pounds. Restoration projects not only easily allowed for physical distancing, but also demonstrated to interns the importance of stewardship in relation to local salmon populations. On many days, interns split their time between habitat restoration and major office projects. Interns digitized and recategorized NSEA’s library inventory, with the hope of making resources more accessible to both NSEA staff and the general public. Some interns also spent time designing posters and social media posts to increase stewardship outreach, while others collected data on restoration efforts and community engagement. These areas of expertise became a central focus of the internship and provided outlets for creativity and individual skill development.

Alternative Modes of Outreach and Professional Development

The second half of the summer provided River Steward interns with a few limited opportunities to engage in community outreach and allowed for more time to develop professional development skills. With county-wide Phase 2 COVID-19 restrictions in place throughout July and August, the team had to find safe and creative ways to promote community engagement and education.

Some interns found their voice by hosting docent stations complete with live macroinvertebrates and water quality testing. While wearing masks and practicing social distancing, interns safely educated visitors about the salmon species, lifecycle, and habitat along the North Fork of the Nooksack River. Interns also encouraged rafters on the South Fork to become stewards of their environment and help salmon by picking up trash and leaving gravel habitat undisturbed. Others focused their outreach efforts on virtual education resources including a guided river hike and a video series featuring tips for responsible recreation. With community engagement opportunities limited this summer, professional development—an essential component of all FLOW internships—became a central focus for interns this year. Through various workshops, the group delved into topics such as resumés, cover letters, presentations, interviewing, networking, and grant writing. These hands-on workshops helped interns develop valuable career skills and learn about the operation of an environmental nonprofit.