The Watersmith Journal
Welcoming NRS as a Green Line Sponsor for 2024!
We are thrilled to announce that NRS is joining the Watersmith Guild as a Green Line sponsor for 2024! This partnership is a testament to NRS’s exceptional dedication to equitable waterways access, conservation, and their instrumental role in our growth and success.
10-Years of First Waves
This video celebrates the 10th anniversary of the First Waves Program! Over the past decade, we've empowered countless youth through river surfing, environmental education, and community engagement. This milestone wouldn't have been possible without the incredible dedication of our volunteers, the generous support of our sponsors, the collaboration with our partners, and the enthusiastic participation of our amazing students. Thank you all for being a part of this incredible journey. Here's to many more years of making waves together!
Volunteer of the year (2023)
The Watersmith Guild is thrilled to announce Mark Palladino as the Volunteer of the Year for his outstanding dedication and contributions to our organization. Mark's unwavering passion for the sport of standup paddleboarding and his commitment to safeguarding the waterways of Pennsylvania have truly set him apart.
Leaders in Environment, Access, and Diversity
Ian Smith and the Watersmith Guild selected as LEAD Ambassadors by Northwest River Supplies (NRS).
Watermarks - Online now!
Volunteer of the year
Watersmith Guild Receives Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence
The Watersmith Guild received a 2023 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence for its First Waves programs which inspire conservation of waterways and mentorship for at-risk youth through transformative experiences in outdoor adventure and the art of filmmaking.
First Waves Indiana Film Premiere
Join us for the official film premiere of First Waves Indiana! The event will celebrate the latest regional project of First Waves that empowers youth in the region to contribute to watershed conservation and recreation.
Watch Watersmith Guild on Start Up Television Show!
Learn about how the Watersmith Guild and First Waves came to be on the Start Up Television hosted by Gary Bredow! The show provides an in-depth look at the fascination of standup paddleboarding and how Ian Smith uses the pursuit as a catalyst to inspire conservation of waterways and mentorship for underserved youth.
5Point Adventure Film Festival + Premiere of First Waves Pittsburgh
You are invited to join us on Friday, September 16th for the 4th annual 5Point Film Festival in conjunction with the celebration and premiere of the First Wave’s and the Watersmith Guild’s latest film! The event is held in conjunction with Ascend Climbing Gym and 3 Rivers Outdoor Company at their Regent Square Location. The event will also include sweepstakes, prizes, food from local Regent Square Eateries and drinks from Goodlander Cocktails and Old Thunder Brewing!