Each workshop is a balanced mix of field work, laboratory exercises, and presentations by local, regional, and national experts. A typical workshop hosts a wide variety of participants, from veteran leaders of volunteer monitoring groups to those who are just starting a program. The networking aspect of the workshops has provided an invaluable launch pad for continued cooperation among volunteer groups. For example, during a workshop in Tampa, groups decided to work toward a state-wide agreement on monitoring methods. The workshops are limited to volunteer monitoring leaders.
Limited support is provided for lodging and transportation as needed.
Organizations new to water quality monitoring will learn how to establish or improve water quality monitoring operations, improve the quality of data collected, and enhance training efforts. Groups with more experience in volunteer monitoring will be able to share their experiences with sampling, fundraising, establishing partnerships, and other topics. All participants will have an opportunity to network with members of monitoring groups and government agencies. To facilitate the participation of monitoring groups, lodging will be provided based on need, distance traveled to the workshop, and funding availability. Participants receiving lodging will be asked to share a room with one other participant.