Title
Special Recognition - Stream Team 30th Anniversary
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Recognize the collaborative legacy of Stream Team in expanding environmental awareness and stewardship over the last three decades in partnership with adjacent jurisdictions and many partners.
Report
Issue:
Whether to recognize the 30th anniversary of Stream Team.
Staff Contact:
Jesse Barham, Environmental Services Supervisor, Public Works/Water Resources, 360.753.8164
Presenters:
Jesse Barham, Environmental Services Supervisor
Michelle Stevie, Senior Habitat Biologist/Stream Team Coordinator
Background and Analysis:
In 1989, the Olympia City Council directed Public Works staff to create a program for engaging and educating citizens in aquatic resources protection and enhancement. The Stream Team was launched in 1990 by the Storm and Surface Water Utility. In subsequent years, Lacey, Tumwater and Thurston County also initiated Stream Team programs though their stormwater utilities. These jurisdictions work collaboratively providing education and outreach to the community about the Salish Sea, local wildlife and their habitats, water quality, and how citizen actions can protect and improve these important local natural resources.
Over the years, Stream Team has been involved in many innovative programs and continues to adapt to the pandemic with virtual lectures, events and educational materials. Stream Team relies on our amazing volunteers that help with programs such as Salmon Stewards, amphibian monitoring and tree planting events. The youth of our community is another focus of Stream Team. Events like Marine Creature Monday and Beach Seines (fish foraging) provide hands-on, educational activities for school-aged kids.
Stream Team partners with many local community groups and agencies to increase awareness and stewardship of local water ways and water quality. Partners and collaborators over ...
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