Certificate Program Core Modules

The Watershed Academy Web's Watershed Management Training Certificate is earned by completing 15 modules and passing their self-tests with a grade of 70% or better. Trainees are required to complete at least 12 of the 15 core modules listed below. Trainees may substitute other modules of higher interest and relevance for up to 3 of the core modules, but we recommend completing all 15 core modules for the best mix of watershed management disciplines.

Introductory/Overview Modules:

  • Principles of watershed management
  • Ecosystem services: benefits to human societies

    Watershed Ecology Modules:

  • Introduction to watershed ecology
  • Protecting instream flows: how much water does a river need?
  • Stream corridor structure

    Watershed Change Modules:

  • Nonpoint source pollution with Nitrogen and Phosphorus
  • Agents of watershed change

    Analysis and Planning Modules:

  • Introduction to watershed planning
  • Overview of watershed monitoring

    Management Practices Modules:

  • 8 Tools of watershed protection
  • Agricultural management practices for water quality protection
  • Forestry best management practices in watersheds

    Community/Social Context Modules:

  • Getting In Step: A Guide to Effective Outreach In Your Watershed
  • Top Ten Watershed Lessons Learned
  • Introduction to the Clean Water Act tools for watershed protection