Austin Youth River Watch

About AYRW

“Austin Youth River Watch (AYRW) provides multi-year after school and summer programs for high school students. We combine peer mentoring with intensive environmental education, and empower youth through nature-based and experiential service-learning programs in environmental science.”
https://www.sosalliance.org/

Volunteer Opportunities

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This week our River Watch staff hosted a field trip for Crockett High School's Aquatic Science class! The students got to hike down Hornsby Bend's beautiful trails, sample the macroinvertebrates in the Colorado River & test the water quality! This hands-on science activity allowed the students to directly see the connection between stream health and aquatic life. Big thanks to Crockett High School for being wonderful guests. We love sharing the wonders of Hornsby Bend's natural area with new students!

A post shared by Austin Youth River Watch (@riverwatchers) on Oct 17, 2019 at 1:29pm PDT

Creek cleanups
Planting native riparian species
Mulching
Invasive species removal
Outreach activities
Building rain gardens
Advocate for AYRW youth and the environment
Assist at the AYRW EcoHouse with administrative duties
Fundraising
Accompanying River Watchers on camping and canoeing adventures on weekends

Volunteer Requirements

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This past week our Heroes continued their environmental work through cleaning up over 200lbs of trash at Payton Gin Pocket Park, testing water quality at Barton Springs, and watering trees at Blackshear Elementary! Our educational topics have covered urban heat islands, climate change, watersheds, and the detrimental effects of microtrash. Question of the day: what film or book from your childhood inspired you to learn more about the environment? #aeh #austinenvironmentalheroes #riverwatchers

A post shared by Austin Youth River Watch (@riverwatchers) on Jul 10, 2019 at 7:24pm PDT

Commitment to show up weekly.
Adeptness or willingness to work with teenagers.
Willing to be outdoors. Experience in content areas (water chemistry, aquatic life, riparian restoration, etc.) appreciated by not required.

To apply to be a volunteer, go to AYRW’s Volunteer page.

Or visit their homepage: https://riverwatchers.org/

Austin Youth River Watch Locations