WSCC would like to highlight Mitch Plum who has been volunteering his time, energy, and expertise with us for almost four years. In moving to Paonia, Mitch sought out opportunities to give back to the community and learn more about the North Fork watershed. He found the perfect chance to get involved through WSCC’s Watershed Committee.
Since joining the committee, Mitch has been involved in numerous activities and events, including WSCC’s table at Pickin’ in the Park and maintenance at Paonia River Park. His primary involvement, however, has been in creating charts for the latest 10-year water quality report, a long-term trend analysis based on data collected and tested by the River Watch program. Regarding his work on these charts, Mitch said, “That was big. We’ve been working on that report for over a year with stops and starts, back and forth. There were changes as we went along in terms of what people wanted to see, because it went on for so long. There was a lot there.”
His intense and long-term involvement in the 10-year water quality report links back to his core reasons for volunteering with WSCC. He hopes to, “be able to understand and make a difference when it comes to water policy, especially with issues where we are here in Paonia and the Western Slope, and to get involved in improving that as much as possible.”
In his time volunteering, Mitch’s favorite parts have been the relationships formed with those he has worked with as well as the ability to be involved in the numerous field trips offered by the Watershed Committee.
WSCC is incredibly grateful for Mitch’s involvement. His commitment to watershed stewardship here in the North Fork has helped to ensure that our rivers remain healthy for people and riparian habitats alike.
“I really enjoy the people, and I hope — now that this intense project is over — to get more involved with the conservation center and the watershed committee. To take on more things.”