News

In September 2024, Sound Rivers gained a new staff member, courtesy of Resilience Corps NC AmeriCorps, a service program of the Conservation Trust for North Carolina.

Since, Stormwater Education Coordinator Sierra Stickney has been on the ground, in the water and in the classroom educating others about stormwater infrastructure and Sound Rivers’ Campus Stormwater Program.

At six months, we thought we’d check in with Sierra to see how her Sound Rivers’ tenure is going.

Q: What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned since working with Sound Rivers?

A: I was shocked to learn that sediment is the No. 1 pollutant by volume in North Carolina. This knowledge affects my work with stormwater, as well. 

Q: Where do you think you’ve had the most impact so far?

A: I believe I have had the most impact in Craven County schools. In December of 2024, I led the first Stormwater Week with Mrs. Mauney’s class. In February, (Volunteer Coordinator Emily Fritz) and I presented at the Craven Summit. Through this, we met many teachers interested in the campus stormwater program. I also have worked on several maintenance projects for previously installed green stormwater infrastructure in Craven County, one most recently at West Craven High School.

Q: How do you think the work you’re doing is important? 

A: Stormwater is an underrated problem, impacting water quality and infrastructure across all communities in the Neuse and Tar-Pamlico watersheds. While the problem is substantial, local schools often lack adequate support. Organizations like Sound Rivers are essential in bridging this gap, but the need for action remains significant. I believe my ability to provide direct education and address maintenance issues within these schools can make a tangible difference. Though the problem will likely persist beyond my service term, each step we take is crucial in moving towards a sustainable solution.

Q: How have you benefited from the AmeriCorps program?

A: Through my AmeriCorps service with Resilience Corps, I’ve gained valuable insights into the pressing issues facing my community and surrounding areas. I’ve also benefited from connecting with other dedicated individuals in the nonprofit sector, gaining a broader perspective on community development. For someone new to North Carolina, this program has been an invaluable pathway to understanding local needs and actively participating in positive change.

Sierra’s work with Sound Rivers has not been limited to stormwater, however. She’s provided valuable assistance for other programs including: assisting the Greens Mill Run Creek Walk with Pamlico-Tar Riverkeeper Katey Zimmerman; representing Sound Rivers at the Tar River Community Festival; helping with the installation of four new trash traps (in Tarboro, Raleigh and Washington); and participating in six trash trap cleanouts.

Thank you for being a part of the Sound Rivers team, Sierra!

Resilience Corps NC AmeriCorps is a service program of the Conservation Trust for North Carolina, funded by a grant through the North Carolina Governor’s Commission on Volunteerism.