Welcome new Flathead River Steward
Kirstin Gruver is joining the River to Lake Initiative as our new Flathead River Steward. Kirstin is a Big Sky Watershed Corps (associated with AmeriCorps) member who will be working on education projects and helping interested landowners restore critical riparian areas and wetlands along the Flathead River and the north shore of Flathead Lake.
Kirstin will serve as the River Steward for one year. She will be assisting River to Lake Initiative partners, including landowners, MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks, Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Flathead Conservation District, and the Flathead Lakers with restoration projects, such as riparian fencing, planting, and weeding, and education projects, such as sharing information with landowners about programs that provide financial assistance for restoration and conservation projects.
Kirstin will also coordinate volunteer river clean-up and outreach activities. Watch for new volunteer opportunities next summer!
Kirstin recently graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science and Resource Management. She loves outdoor activities including ultimate Frisbee and skiing. Kirstin is excited to learn more about restoration and engage with river landowners to learn about their concerns and help with restoration challenges.
Establishing a River Steward position was identified as a priority for the River to Lake Initiative in the Initiative’s 2011 Communication Plan. The Flathead Lakers submitted a successful proposal to the Montana Watershed Coordination Council for a Big Sky Watershed Corps member to pilot the River Steward position in 2013.
Funding for the position came from partners, a Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative partner grant and the High Stakes Foundation grant. Thank you to all our partners and funders!
Kirstin is based at the Natural Resource Conservation Service office in Kalispell. She can be reached at 406-752-4242 extension 109, or kkgruver1227@gmail.com. Welcome to the Flathead and the River to Lake Initiative, Kirstin!
