Question 1

Where does B.R.A.T. get its funding?

Accepted Answer

B.R.A.T. is 100% volunteer-run and relies on donations, small grants, and support from community partners. If you'd like to help sustain our work, consider making a donation or becoming a program sponsor.

Question 2

Who is in charge at B.R.A.T.?

Accepted Answer

Kelly Stettner is the founder and current director of the Black River Action Team. Learn more about her on the About page.

B.R.A.T. is 100% volunteer-run, so there are currently no staff members.

There is no formal board of directors, however there is an ad hoc financial committee who reviews finances regularly. Additionally, financial oversight is provided by B.R.A.T.'s fiscal sponsor, Tiny Seed Project, based out of East Hardwick, Vermont.

Question 3

How can schools or groups support B.R.A.T.?

Accepted Answer

We love working with schools, scout troops, businesses, and civic groups. This could be a volunteer opportunity, supply drive, fundraiser, or other coordinated event. Reach out through the Connect page and we’ll help coordinate with you!

Question 4

Where does B.R.A.T. operate?

Accepted Answer

Our work focuses on the Black River watershed in Windsor County, Vermont, including towns like Springfield, Ludlow, Cavendish, and others that the river touches. We also collaborate with regional partners on projects that impact the broader Connecticut River system.

Question 5

When is the next B.R.A.T. event?

Accepted Answer

Take a look at our calendar page and scroll through to see upcoming events. You can click on an event in the calendar to see more information about it. Also, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and join our email list - all from our website!

Question 6

How do I get one of those cool B.R.A.T. t-shirts?

Accepted Answer

Our amazing t-shirts get a special design makeover every year, making them a highly sought-after commodity for 23 years now. They are gifted to volunteers and others who support B.R.A.T.

So, please sign up to volunteer if you are hoping to get one of these exclusive shirts. Then, become a "BRAT IN THE WILD" by posting a photo on social media of yourself wearing your B.R.A.T. t-shirt in fun places - don't forget to tag us!

Question 7

How can I best support the work of B.R.A.T.?

Accepted Answer

Volunteer, donate, connect.

B.R.A.T. is always in need of more volunteers and more funds. We are also often looking for unique skills or equipment - please visit our Connect page if you have something you'd like to offer and we can consider the options together!

Question 8

What is a watershed?

Accepted Answer

A watershed, also known as a drainage basin or catchment, is an area of land where all the surface water from rain and snowmelt converges to a single point, like a river mouth, lake, or ocean.

It's essentially the land area that drains into a specific body of water - in our case, the Black River!

Question 9

What types of volunteer activities are available?

Accepted Answer

Several of our projects only happen on specific dates or at particular times like water quality monitoring and the annual RiverSweep Cleanup; but some, like Culvert Crawlers, Plant Partners, and Dragonfly Detectives, are more flexible.  Visit our Volunteer page for more information about our specific program volunteer opportunities.

We welcome groups of all kinds to participate, including corporate, homeschool, Scout troops, day camps and those looking for community service in the Windsor County, Vermont, area.

Contact us to chat more about volunteer activities that will fit your unique situation.

Question 10

Are any volunteer opportunities “kid-friendly”?

Accepted Answer

B.R.A.T. embraces volunteers of all ages and ability levels. We have plenty of volunteer opportunities for homeschoolers, homesteaders, camp groups, Scout troops, and more. Go to the Connect page to send us a message today - we'll work with you to find just the right activity for your family or group.

Question 11

What type of paperwork are volunteers asked to complete?

Accepted Answer

You'll likely need to review and sign a standard safety waiver and a media release - we work hard to ensure that all our activities are as risk-free as possible.  We also like to promote our work through photos and testimonials!

Question 12

How do I become a volunteer?

Accepted Answer

Please reach out through our online form on the Volunteer page and someone will get back to you to work out the details.

Question 13

Do I need any experience to participate in a cleanup?

Accepted Answer

Not at all! All are welcome—families, individuals, and community groups. We provide supplies, guidance, and safety tips so you can jump right in. Just bring your enthusiasm (and maybe some boots)!

Question 14

Why do people volunteer with B.R.A.T.?

Accepted Answer

Volunteering with the Black River Action Team means joining a passionate, boots-on-the-ground effort to protect and restore Vermont’s rivers. Whether you're cleaning up debris, testing water quality, or simply spending time outdoors, you’ll be part of a team making a real, visible impact.

Read our testimonials on the Visitors page for more inspiration!

Frequently Asked Questions