"Save Our Stream" is a student originated and student-led organization. The group was formed shortly after the students of Hawken School discovered that a 12,000 year old population of Ohio brook trout was living in nearby stream.

They were surprised to find such an environmentally sensitive species in an area prone to heavy foot traffic, housing developments, and several pollution sources. After conducting some background research and interviewing several conservation groups and public officials, they realized that there was a significant awareness issue and insufficient protection plans for these Ice Age remnants. In fact, their community survey demonstrated that 88% of the respondents did not even know that the trout existed.

After monitoring the water quality for a period of time, they concluded that the human activities in the area have a significant impact on the health of the stream. The students used GIS mapping coupled with available photographic and topological data to determine exactly where surface runoff was being introduced into the Chagrin River watershed. With this information in hand, they were able to focus their community education efforts on the residents living in the most sensitive areas. Through scientific analysis, the students were able to determine that riparian buffers contributed significantly to the survival of the brook trout.

The students are looking for new ways to spread the word about the plight of the Ohio brook trout. Last year, they provided educational programming for the naturalists of the Geauga Park District (GPD). In turn, the naturalists were able to incorporate this information into their lesson plans. Last year, GPD provided classes for over 11,000 students. The students of Hawken School have received several awards for their efforts, including the 2004 President's Environmental Youth Award through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

According to the Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, "The Hawken School's student-originated and student-run program "Save Our Stream - S.O.S." seeks to reduce run-off and non-point source pollution in the subwatersheds of the native Ohio brook trout. Students are combining water quality monitoring and watershed mapping with hands-on habitat restoration and outreach program designed to prevent further degradation.

Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute salutes the "Save Our Stream - S.O.S." program for using innovative collaborations with scientists and managers from state and local government agencies, local homeowners and businesses to make a difference by improving native brook trout habitat."