Texas Watershed Education Volunteer Comprehensive Training

This training was developed by TWRI in partnership with AgriLife Educational Development and Engagement. The target audience for this training 1) employees leading Texas Master Gardener and Texas Master Naturalist programs, and 2) volunteers in those programs.

This course provides Texas Master Gardeners and Texas Master Naturalists a flexible, self-guided path to deepen their understanding of water conservation and watershed management across Texas.

Once volunteers finish this course, they will be able to:

• Identify and evaluate best management practices (BMPs) for protecting water quality in agricultural, residential, and riparian environments.
• Explain the structure, function, and restoration of riparian systems and their role in supporting healthy watershed ecosystems
• Demonstrate an understanding of water resource protection at the landowner level, including private well management, septic system maintenance, rainwater harvesting, and sustainable landscaping practices.
• Recognize the importance of community engagement and education in watershed protection through programs such as 4-H Water Ambassadors, Texas Stream Team, and citizen science initiatives.

Course length: 8-16 hours

Course Requirements 

At the start of the course, you’ll select your designation: 

• Master Gardeners: Must complete 16 hours total 
• Master Naturalists: Must complete 8 hours total 

All participants must pass a post-test at the end of each module to receive credit.

Key Topics Covered 

• Watershed science and hydrology 
• Stream and riparian restoration 
• Best practices for landowners and homeowners 
• Water-efficient landscaping 
• Volunteer outreach and service project ideas 

Texas A&M AgriLife employees can access the ​free course at AgriLife Aspire​.