Image depicts 17 people standing in front of a waterfall at the Woods Creek Hydro Project near Monroe, Wa.

Climate Stewards

Building climate resilient communities

WSU Extension Certificate Education

The Climate Stewards program is an engaging, college level course that equips community members with tools that lead to productive communication and community goal setting that results in advancing climate resiliency in Washington. Students learn from local experts and meet the leaders who are making a difference in our neighborhoods.

Interested in applying? More information

Climate Stewards Course

WSU Climate Stewards Certificate participants receive communication skills training, plus climate science education in earth and climate systems with a focus on Washington State. Participants engage with local experts through online classes, tour groups and organizations actively engaged in building climate resilience, and learn from a rigorous curriculum designed by U.C. Davis and adapted by Washington scientists and professionals for our unique ecosystems and political environment.

2025 WSU Climate Stewards Impact Statement

Course Overview

The Climate Stewards course combines online learning with in-person or video classes plus field learning experiences in earth systems, water management, energy, agriculture, and other related topics. In addition, you will receive training in communication skills and goal setting, so you can use your Climate Stewards knowledge to make an impact in your community.

The training will include an overview of state and local climate policies. WSU Climate Stewards is a catalyst for public participation in Washington’s climate change initiatives as defined through the Climate Commitment Act.

Course detail

I knew the basics of climate change science, but I learned a lot about Washington state policy and how to build and evaluate community resilience
2025 Class participant, Bruce Lindsay

Interested in Climate Stewards for 2027?

Locations:

Island County

Spring 2027

Hosted by WSU Island County Extension

If you are outside Island County, and are interested in the program, please click here and leave a comment. We are actively seeking to expand to other counties, and your interest will help us!

Additional WSU Certificate Courses:

Green School

A new, expanded version of the Master Gardener Program, with an option for those who lack the time to volunteer.

WA Naturalist

Naturalist

A program to provide education for individuals seeking to volunteer with organizations doing environmental education, stewardship, and research.

Dr. Jane Goodall (1934-2025)

British primatologist, anthropologist, conservationist, and UN Messenger of Peace

I want you to understand that we are part of the natural world. And even today, when the planet is dark, there still is hope. Don’t lose hope. If you lose hope, you become apathetic and do nothing. And if you want to save what is still beautiful in this world—if you want to save the planet for the future generations, your grandchildren, their grandchildren—then think about the actions you take each day.

Because, multiplied a million, a billion times, even small actions will make for great change.
Dr. Jane Goodall