Penn State Extension's Master Watershed Steward Volunteer Makes a Splash in Berks County

A Lifelong Passion for Environmental Conservation

Gary Grahl's love affair with nature began at a young age. As a child, he spent countless hours exploring the woods behind his family's home, fascinated by the intricate web of life that surrounded him. This curiosity about the natural world has only grown stronger with time, leading him to become an advocate for environmental conservation and a stalwart volunteer in Penn State Extension's Master Watershed Steward program.

A New Chapter as a Master Watershed Steward

At 70 years young, Gary decided it was time to take on a new challenge. After three 'unretirements,' he felt the need for something more meaningful and engaging. Thus began his journey as a volunteer in the Master Watershed Steward program, which caught his attention due to its focus on watershed management and environmental education.

'I've always been passionate about nature and conservation,' Gary said. 'As a Master Watershed Steward, I've met many other volunteers who share my enthusiasm for teaching others about our wonderful world of water.'

A Wealth of Experience and Knowledge

Gary's involvement in the Master Watershed Steward program has provided him with invaluable knowledge and experience. He has participated in numerous activities, including hands-on projects, educational programs, and outreach initiatives. His expertise extends to water quality testing, macroinvertebrate identification, and riparian buffer planting.

One of his favorite activities is engaging with school groups. He takes them on educational excursions to streams, where they catch and identify the creatures that inhabit these waterways. Gary's infectious enthusiasm makes learning a joy for both him and his young companions.

The Power of Community Engagement

As a Master Watershed Steward, Gary is part of a larger network of volunteers dedicated to protecting water quality and aquatic ecosystems in Berks County. Together, they conduct monthly water testing and analysis at various sites, including Nolde Forest State Park. Their work involves monitoring alkalinity, dissolved oxygen, nitrates, pH, and water transparency, as well as sampling macroinvertebrate populations.

The group has also initiated environmental restoration projects, such as planting riparian buffers along streams and rivers. These buffers not only help filter runoff but also decrease erosion and reduce stormwater effects. Gary's dedication to these initiatives reflects his deep commitment to preserving the natural world for future generations.

Expanding His Reach with Additional Training

Gary's passion for environmental education led him to seek additional training in 2022. He joined Penn State Extension's Master Well Owner Network, a statewide initiative that empowers volunteers to educate rural homeowners on private water well management. With this new skill set, Gary is able to reach an even broader audience and provide valuable insights on ensuring the quality of drinking water.

In Pennsylvania alone, over 3 million people rely on more than 1 million private water wells. Unfortunately, research has shown that nearly half of these systems fail to meet one or more drinking water standards. As a Master Well Owner Network volunteer, Gary is well-equipped to address this pressing issue and educate his neighbors about the importance of responsible water management.

A Shining Example of Community Involvement

Gary's dedication to the Master Watershed Steward program has earned him recognition from Matt Neumaier, coordinator for Penn State Extension in Berks and Schuylkill counties. 'Gary is knowledgeable, committed, and always willing to lend a hand,' Neumaier said. 'He's an invaluable asset to our team.'

A Message for Those Considering Volunteering

For those considering joining their local Master Watershed Steward program, Gary offers simple advice: 'Come on in, the water's great!' His infectious enthusiasm and love for environmental education make him a shining example of community involvement and a testament to the power of collective action.

The Penn State Master Watershed Steward Program

The Penn State Master Watershed Steward program provides extensive training in watershed management to volunteers. These trained stewards, in turn, educate their communities about watershed stewardship based on university research and recommendations. The program aims to strengthen local capacity for managing and protecting watersheds, streams, and rivers by empowering volunteers across the commonwealth.