Local residents interested in advocating for a clean water supply can learn how to become more involved through a leadership institute supported by the Stanislaus County Department of Environmental Resources.

The Water Leadership Institute, which involves four in-person workshops, aims to help members of the local community interested in building leadership skills and advocating for reliable, clean water become more active players.

This institute is for residents of the Delta Mendota subbasin, which includes Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera and Fresno counties; domestic well owners; current or prospective water board members; and anyone interested in getting more involved in water issues.

Topics covered during the institute workshops include: Community history and vision, local water management, water laws and decision making, leadership styles, collaborating through change and communications and storytelling.

There will be a virtual information session about the Water Leadership Institute from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Feb. 22. The four in-person workshops will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 9, April 13, May 11 and June 15 in Los Banos.

Meals will be provided during the workshops, as well as gas stipends. Families are welcome.

Applications are required to attend the institute and can be found at: www.edf.org/waterleadership.

For more information, email Mariana Rivera-Torres at mriveratorres@edf.org or call (805) 636-0372.