Dutchess Watershed Awareness Month

“I am the spirit of the Watersheds of Dutchess County.

I represent the Fall Kill, the Casperkill, the Fishkill and the Wappinger as they flow into the mighty Hudson.

I represent the fish who swim in these creeks: the frisky trout, the hungry bass and the lowly carp and catfish.

I represent the birds that call these waterways home: the double crested cormorants, the snowy egrets, kingfishers, swallows and the great blue heron.

I represent all amphibians who hide in the shores and shallows: from the prehistoric snapping turtles, to the fragile frogs and salamanders.

I represent the native plants and trees: the Sycamore, Red Maples, Ash and Oak.  The Buttonbush, the Jewelweed and Cattails.

I was conceived at a meeting of volunteers and staff of the Cornell Cooperative Extension.

I was created by these dedicated County citizens to serve as a mascot for Dutchess County’s watersheds,

to tell the story of its creatures,to educated the public on what they can do to preserve our waterways and the ground water flowing underneath, to preserve our plants and our wildlife for all to enjoy now and for our children in the future.

I have marched in parades, encouraged volunteers at clean-up sites, and inspired children at educational events…”

Written by Wilfredo Chaluisant, volunteer with the Wappinger Creek Watershed Intermunicipal Council