Imagine a neighborhood where the attractive landscape invites you to stroll down the street.  The bushes and trees are used as a water-purifying filter.  There are fewer toxic pesticides for your children and grandchildren to ingest when they play outside.  Neighbors know more about each other than the make of their car or where they work.  A Livable Neighborhood is a place you want to be.

This Livable Neighborhood and the river are directly linked.  The same actions that make our neighborhoods safer, healthier and prettier also restore the rivers and streams.  Our water resources are being harmed by our daily lifestyle choices.  How we live threatens the drinking supplies, the recreational uses and beauty of our rivers.  A Livable Neighborhood is only possible in the long-term if we have healthy rivers and groundwater. 

We will give you materials, training and ongoing support to be a leader in your community.  Each step of the way, our staff will be there for you.  Together we will build a team of your neighbors who will meet 4 times.  This team selects from 32 step-by-step actions in a workbook designed to improve the water quality and water efficiency of each household.  None of these activities are difficult or new.  the program simply gives you the extra motivation and support to ensure you actually complete them.  Some examples include:

-  Reducing toxic products in your home

- Reducing the use of weed killers and fertilizers on your lawn

- Mulching grass

- Washing your car with the least impact

- Installing a rain barrel and other water saving devices

See the workbook section below for more details descriptions of the activities. 

Be part of the solution and become a Team Leader.  Contact Daria Blom 540-373-3448x115 or education@riverfriends.org for more information or to sign up for the team leader training

Team leaders work with the staff to gather and motivate the neighborhood team.  You will attend one 4-hour training session and host 4 gatherings with your neighbors.  The staff will be with you every step of the way. 

Teams are forming now.  Team Leader trainings are happening now!  Contact Daria Blom at 540-373-3448 x115 or education@riverfriends.org to sign up.