Our team is at the heart of everything we do at the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council, and we’re excited to share their stories with you! In our “Meet the Team” series, we’ll highlight the passionate individuals who make our work possible—sharing their roles, inspirations, and favorite moments along the river. From personal reflections to environmental insights, this series is a way for you to connect with the people behind the WRWC and learn what drives them to protect and celebrate the Woonasquatucket River and its watershed.
Meet the Team: William O’Connor (he/him)
Role at WRWC
Environmental Educator
How long have you been part of the WRWC team?
6 months
Is there something about the Woonasquatucket River or WRWC’s work you wish more people understood?
I am very excited for our second year of Camp Woonasquatucket at the Leo Bouchard Conservation Center in Smithfield, RI. Our camp is a great opportunity for young environmental stewards to engage in hands-on environmental education. The program allows young explorers to interact, observe, and care for the natural world around them and our team is thrilled that we now offer a full day of camp to our campers! As an environmental educator the number one thing I try to teach to our students is the importance of community action. Through our lessons, both in-school and at Camp Woonasquatucket, we teach our students how they can make a difference in their communities through environmental stewardship.
What environmental issue is closest to your heart, and why?
An environmental issue that I would love to see the community tackle is littering. This issue starts with each individual person and inherently requires self-discipline and personal accountability. Even though it starts as a personal-problem, the affect that cleaning litter (or not littering in the first place) has on the community is as clear as night and day. This is important to me because it is one of the most actionable and universal environmental issues that burdens our communities.
Do you have a favorite spot along the river or in the watershed?
My favorite spot along the river runs right by our office in Eagle Square. I really enjoy this area because of the wildlife I can watch right from the office window, the amazing walk along the river when I go to New Harvest Coffee, and the beautiful birds that call this place home.
What’s one small action people can take to help the environment?
Learn more about the plants and animals that live in your community! The more you learn the more you will want to teach others to help conserve and protect them.
If you could instantly master any skill or hobby, what would it be?
The ability to pick up any instrument and play (even mediocrely). I love music so this would be a very awesome skill.
Favorite plant or tree (or a green thumb tip)?
Favorite trees: Weeping Willow or Magnolia. Favorite Plant: Heliconia
Is there an animal you feel a special connection to?
Strawberry Poison Dart Frogs. They are so tiny and cute and can tell us so much about the health of the environment around them.