The Steward Program

A Growing Presence

A part-time River Steward was hired in the fall of 2014 to provide summer management and year-round staff support. In the Summer of 2015, the program expanded to bring on paid and volunteer Assistant Stewards during the busy months of June through August. The River Steward Program is administered under the supervision of the FRCC and continues to grow each year.

Our Mission

Through education and outreach, the steward team engages river users on the water, at local events, and online. Our mission is to spread a stewardship ethic on the Farmington River. We aim to expand appreciation for the river environment, reduce litter, be a source of information, and help others share in the enjoyment and protection of the river.

Upcoming Programs & Events

Attend a clean-up day, one of our educational series programs,
or our next Junior River Ranger event

Protect the River

Each year, thousands of locals and visitors spend time enjoying the Upper Farmington River. We must take the time to care for this incredible resource. Various issues threaten the river’s future, and there are lots of ways to get involved and help us make a difference and ensure that the river can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Issues Facing the Farmington River

Trash & Littering

Cans, bottles, food wrappers, bags and other debris are often left along the river. These are harmful to the environment and eco-system surrounding the river, but can also end up in the water way itself, further endangering this natural resource.

Overuse and Riverbank Erosion

The disturbance caused by excessive crowds, overuse, and invasive plants, contribute to riverbank erosion. Do your part to help combat riverbank erosion by using designated river access points and not clearing new paths when visiting the river, which could do more than just damage vegetation.

Polluted Stormwater Runoff

In a recent study, 84% of streams measured in the U.S. had increased chloride concentrations (the most common salt used on roadways), higher levels can be unsafe for wildlife and humans, as the chloride can end up in well water. It may take most of the season for all the chloride to be flushed downstream from the winter salting.

Invasive Plants

Invasive non-native plants are a threat to native ecosystems. The good news is we can do something about invasive plants. We have several volunteer days throughout the year where you can help us combat invasive plants. We will also share ways to reduce invasive plants in your backyard.

Climate Change &
Temperature Impairments

Many factors are contributing to the increase in water temperatures. One more direct issue is removing trees for development, which means increased sunlight on parts of the river. The warmer the water, the less oxygen for the fish and other life that depends on the river.

Take Action

Become a steward of the river! Every small and large action will have an impact on protecting the Farmington River. You can be a river steward among your group of friends by reminding them to bring trash bags with you for a day of tubing or reminding your family when preparing for a picnic not to bring any glass or other items that could harm the river.