STUDENTS CAN RECEIVE HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT FOR PARTICIPATING IN THE SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

A new Groundwater Steward Program for students interested in careers in environmental management will be facilitated by the Santa Margarita Groundwater Agency (SMGWA) beginning this month. The educational component of the program will be conducted online through Google Classroom.

The program explores how geography and geology relate to groundwater and groundwater-surface water interactions, and also highlights the interdisciplinary nature and sociopolitical components of environmental management. Students will learn about how SMGWA is currently developing its Groundwater Sustainable Plan, which aims to educate and engage with the public to set specific criteria upon which groundwater management will be based over the next 20 years.

In the culminating activity of the Groundwater Steward Program, students will take on the role of a water manager through game play. Students will experience the challenge of balancing the conflicting needs and requirements of all users, in addition to the variables of future growth and climate change.

This program is eligible for up to two hours of community service credit through Scotts Valley High School’s Career Exploration Program. Completing the full program, which is estimated to take 10 to 15 hours, is required to receive credit hours. To participate, email [email protected] or call 831-600-1901.

ABOUT SANTA MARGARITA GROUNDWATER AGENCY
The Santa Margarita Groundwater Agency (SMGWA) is a joint powers authority comprised of the San Lorenzo Valley Water District, Scotts Valley Water District and the County of Santa Cruz, to oversee the groundwater management activities in the Santa Margarita Groundwater Basin in Santa Cruz County, California. The agency was established in 2017. The Board of Directors of the SMGWA includes two board members from each of the member agencies, one from the City of Scotts Valley, one from the City of Santa Cruz, one from the Mount Hermon Association Community Water System and two well owner representatives. Learn more at www.smgwa.org or on Facebook.