 Hi, I'm Eve Brantley, Water Resources Specialist for the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Every day people interact with water. Today we're going to talk about water resources, local water, water programming, and why you should be involved. Our streams, rivers, and lakes are alive, and we are connected to them. Alabama alone has 132,000 miles of streams and rivers. We use these waters for drinking, transportation, and recreation. Because we are so connected to them, it is important that we care for them to protect our health and the health of the environment. These resources, along with our nation-leading aquatic biodiversity, means that we have a stewardship responsibility. One of the best ways that someone can learn about their local environment is citizen science, or the public's participation in scientific research. Programs such as the Private Well Program, Alabama Watershed Stewards, and Alabama Water Watch are excellent venues for people to learn about their local water resources. These programs are led by Auburn University's Water Resources Center and Alabama Extension to educate others and find solutions to water quality issues. The number one threat to water resources in the United States is pollution from stormwater runoff. When it rains, water washes over the ground, picking up litter, oils and gases, pet waste, and other unwanted substances. These materials are then deposited into the nearest water body. The good news is that we have control to mitigate those impacts. Sustaining healthy water resources begins with public awareness. After we create awareness, Alabamians are more likely to invest in their local waters. Working with water has the power to inspire others. So let's partner together so we can all make a change in our own communities.