Meet the Trainers

Clean Water

Meet the Trainers

Save Our Streams trainers are able to train and certify new SOS volunteers in their area. These trainers receive extra training and serve as local points of contact and knowledge for new monitors.

Trainers are assigned to workshops based on geographical area and availability. But no matter who leads your field training, we're sure you won't be disappointed!

Izaak Walton League Staff

Samantha Puckett
Clean Water Program Director

Habitat: Nationwide

Goal: To help volunteers nationwide monitor and have an impact in their region... and of course, to have fun in the stream!

Favorite Monitoring Moment: "I love watching new monitors see the bugs on the net for the first time – it is a combination of shock, awe, and a newfound sense of curiosity that we don’t often find in adulthood."

Inner Macroinvertebrate: Damselfly larva. Damselflies are swimming predators, and use their big eyes to observe when seeking out their prey. "I connect with this because I am often a quiet observer while taking in my surroundings. Adults are also found close to water sources. (I have always been drawn to water in every phase of my life.)"

Special Skills: "When I am not working or spending time outside, I love doing crafts (like crochet or sewing), and fermenting (kombucha, pickles, tepache, you name it!)."

Heather Wilson
Midwest Save Our Streams Coordinator

Habitat: Midwest

Goal: To foster a connection between people and nature, and to help them make a difference for their local waterways!

Favorite Monitoring Moment: I love the realization – especially with kiddos – that there are so many critters to be found in the water. It is an amazing realization that the stream is ALIVE!

Inner Macroinvertebrate: Caddisfly larva. Many caddisflies create elaborate casings from pebbles, sand, or other items from their surroundings. “I admire the resourcefulness of caddisflies, and I feel like we have that in common! Just like the caddisfly, I’ve taken in bits and pieces based on where I am and where I’ve been, and I carry it with me as I journey along.”

Special Skills: In my spare time, I’m most likely playing a board game, riding my bike, working on a puzzle, or enjoying the great outdoors.

Mid-Atlantic

View Mid-Atlantic trainers on the Virginia Save Our Streams website

Midwest