Page last updated on January 22, 2024 at 11:03 am
Adopt-a-Stream is an all-volunteer program that offers an opportunity to be actively involved in conserving and maintaining the natural beauty of streams that run through public park property owned by the City of Bloomington and Monroe County. City staff provides training and equipment for monthly stream monitoring and annual stream maintenance.
Objectives for the Adopt-a-Stream program are:
- to ensure the continued enjoyment of streams running through Bloomington city parks, Monroe County parks, and other compatible areas
- to unite those interested in responsible land management practices through maintenance of streams and public education
- to promote land stewardship, physical fitness, and community
Volunteers who choose to adopt a stream receive training and instruction on proper stream maintenance techniques. All necessary tools and equipment are provided. The only prerequisite to adopt a stream is to have a genuine concern for the well-being of our natural resources.
Garden clubs, Scout troops, youth groups, individuals, special interest clubs, church organizations, families, neighborhood associations, students, school organizations, and private industries are encouraged to get involved. Adopt-a-Stream volunteers must be at least 12 years of age.
Once trained, volunteers are expected to:
- attend an Adopt-a-Stream orientation on Thursday, March 28 at 5:30 p.m. via Zoom, and on-site training in April or early May
- walk and observe the adopted section of stream at least once a month
- remove trash from the stream
- report unusual or suspicious events along the stream
- submit monthly online reports
- perform stream maintenance at least once a year with Bloomington Parks and Recreation, City of Bloomington Utilities, or Monroe County Parks and Recreation staff, depending on the location of your adopted section of stream. Stream maintenance may include removing debris, eradicating invasive plants, or installing erosion control structures.
The Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department, City of Bloomington Utilities Department, and Monroe County Parks and Recreation will:
- orient individuals and/or groups to the Adopt-a-Stream program
- provide basic stream maintenance training
- provide tools and arrange for the use of maintenance equipment