Our grant would support the work of Tribal Nations in protecting and restoring Manoomin (wild rice) to Wisconsin waterways. Wild rice performs several important water quality functions. It absorbs nutrients and toxins and stabilizes shorelines by binding loose soils and slows wave action in shallow wetlands. This increases water clarity and reduces algae blooms. This phase of the project contains two components. First, River Alliance will create a volunteer “Manoomin Stewards” program that will focus on an educational outreach and training program with local water groups to establish interest and respect for wild rice. The second component is a field work data collection program in non-reservation areas in the ceded territories. The field work will be conducted within existing Tribal protocol and in partnerships with GLIFWC, multiple Tribes and WI DNR.