Let's Collaborate

West Virginia’s economy has historically been based on extractive industries, causing legacy impacts on the state’s economy and its citizens. However, there are several hopeful examples of the transformation that occurs when local waterways are restored. An environmental liability can become a community asset and even attract recreation-based tourism into economically depressed areas.

Watershed groups serve an important role in advocating for, preserving, and restoring their local waterways, as well as advancing and promoting recreational opportunities which may lead to economic gain in blighted communities. Common Waters aims to simultaneously address community and student needs by providing innovative opportunities for student-community engagement centered around rural water issues.

Student project spotlights

Chartiers Creek Erosion Study StoryMap

WVU undergraduate student Sarah Nelson developed an interactive StoryMap to engage the public in an erosion project with the Upper Chartiers Creek Watershed Association. The study monitored and quantified the erosion of a stream bank along a public park and ball field. The watershed association hopes the project will bring awareness and help make the case to funders to invest in the restoration of the stream bank.

Assessments of Sediment Loads at Deep Creek Lake

WVU undergraduate Erica Koeplin assessed the erosion and unstable banks of Poland Run within the Deep Creek Lake Watershed.

Mycoremediation of Acid Mine Drainage using Pleurotus ostreatus Fungus

Ever wondered what locally grown mushrooms can do for waterways impacted by acid mine drainage? Jay Clark partnered with Buckhannon River Watershed Association and Mushrooms are Your Allies (MAYA) to assess the impact of Pleurotus ostreatus on water quality.

Estimating Environmental Impacts of Native Tree Species in Deep Creek Lake

Alexander Himes found that strategic native tree planting through Deep Creek Lake’s “10-in-10” Program significantly improves shoreline stability, water quality, and long-term ecosystem resilience.