WaterCorps Program
The WaterCorps program’s mission is to provide high quality technical skills and internship opportunities to tribal members in the water resources field. Also known as the Water Resources Technician Training program, WaterCorps has been providing training and internship opportunities to tribal members for over twenty years. This partnership includes the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Stewards Individual Placements (Stewards), and the multiple federal, state, and tribal entities hosting the internship placements.
Program Structure
Stewards partners with the BIA to develop programmatic goals, develop trainings, administer payroll, and provide insurance for the participants in the program, called WaterCorps members. In 2024, it’s anticipated that we will have between 20 and 25 WaterCorps members and Host Sites.
Host Sites that are interested in hosting a WaterCorps member apply to the program. Projects must relate to water resources, and last for 26 weeks. Past project examples include irrigation, fisheries, GIS, water sampling, water rights, and water quality. Host Site Supervisors design the projects and mentor the WaterCorps member, providing support, professional development, and opportunities for networking.
Early in this 26-week term, WaterCorps members attend a 2-week technical training at a college or university put on by Stewards and the BIA. This training exposes the WaterCorps member to others in their cohort, as well as gives them technical skills and knowledge to supplement what they learn with their Host Site Supervisors.
Program Financial Structure:
The BIA fully-funds these positions at no cost to the Host Site, and the technical training is provided at no-cost to the WaterCorps members: this includes travel to/from, lodging, and food.
Stewards administers member payroll, provides Workers Compensation and Liability insurance, and collects member reports.
WaterCorps members who successfully complete the internship are eligible for an AmeriCorps Education Award in the amount of $3,447.50 before taxes.
WaterCorps Member Eligibility
- Individuals must be a member of their federally-recognized Indian Tribe, Band, or Village in accordance with BIA Form 4432.
- Individuals must be 18-34 years of age and have graduated high school or received a GED.
- Stewards and the BIA recruit applicants nationally. Host sites are highly encouraged to reach out to and recruit local candidates.
Site Eligibility
Federal agencies, state agencies, tribal governments, and non-profit organizations are all encouraged to apply.
The supervisor must provide the member consistent support, guidance, and mentorship prior to and throughout the duration of the internship and possess the required technical skills and knowledge for the position.
Host sites should assist in local recruitment. Being able to provide housing to the WaterCorps member is a great benefit but not required.