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The Association’s River-Friendly Certification Program promotes environmental stewardship.  This program is designed to provide education and information on nonpoint source (NPS) pollution reduction and best management practices focused on the landscape.  The program aims to work cooperatively with residents, businesses, and golf courses to protect our local environment and reduce the amount of chemicals entering water bodies.

BENEFITS
River-Friendly certification will help you become a better environmental steward. Your new land use practices as a steward can save you both time and money. You can increase wildlife habitat, reduce nonpoint source pollution, contribute to improved water quality, and more. The achievements of River-Friendly participants are also recognized through Watershed publications and the presentation of a plaque upon completion of the program. Your stewardship will also contribute to increased community awareness and involvement.

CERTIFICATION PROCESS

• Do you have a shut-off valve on your garden hose?
• Do you have natural areas in your golf course?
• Does your business dispose off hazardous waste appropriately?

If so, you are already on your way to being RIVER FRIENDLY!

River-Friendly certification requires a strong, enthusiastic commitment to becoming a better environmental steward. Once you have committed yourself, Association staff will work with you to complete the application, visit your site for an individualized assessment, and develop specific goals for you and your site. Association staff will also lend support and expertise as you implement actions to achieve your goals. River-Friendly certification averages 12-18 months from start to finish. When you have successfully achieved your goals, we will present you with your hard-earned River-Friendly certification plaque.

PROGRAM FOCUS:
The River-Friendly program focuses on land use stewardship. By improving your everyday land use actions, you can increase water quality and quantity, provide wildlife habitat, and provide community education. Below you will find a more detailed description of the program’s primary themes.

Water Quality Preservation - The quality of our water is crucial in determining our future.  Poor water quality is harmful to human health, as well as to the health of the plants and animals that live near bodies of water.  There are several measures you can implement to reduce fertilizer and pesticide pollution and protect your water quality.
Water Conservation - With limited supplies of clean water, it is important to establish efficient and environmentally conscious watering practices.  Consider ways that you can conserve water both indoors and outside. By watering efficiently, you are not only less wasteful of this resource, but you can also save yourself time and money.
Wildlife Habitat Enhancement - Wildlife habitat in the region has declined significantly in recent years due to human activity and land-use decisions.  There are many chances for you to help enhance habitats and achieve a balance with nature.
Education and Outreach - An important part of stewardship is getting others interested and involved.  By providing outreach and education, you can help the communities understand how to protect environmental health through good management practices.  There are several education opportunities available for you.