First Waves

04/15/2026

We had the pleasure of collaborating with Ph.D candidate, aguirre at for an exciting video exploration. Jason explains, "Connecting folks to nature in their backyard is incredibly important to me and the future of environmental/aquatic science. In this interview I spoke with Ian Smith, the Executive Director of The Watersmith Guild and owner of SurfSUP Adventures, LLC to learn more about his story and dedication to introducing the world of water to the Pittsburgh community and beyond!"

12/01/2025

Voices of First Waves brings you directly into the hearts and minds of the young people who participated in nine Watersmith Guild programs across Western Pennsylvania in 2025. Youth share how connecting with rivers, forests, and new experiences reshaped the way they see nature, themselves, and their future.

From surveying microplastics to planting trees, from paddleboarding for the very first time to producing their own environmental films, these students speak honestly about what they learned, what surprised them, and how spending time outdoors changed their outlook on the world around them. Their voices capture joy, courage, curiosity, and a growing sense of responsibility for protecting the places they call home.

This video is a celebration of youth empowerment, environmental education, and the belief that meaningful experiences in nature can open new pathways for confidence, community, and stewardship.

Listen to their stories. Feel their inspiration. And see the impact of First Waves in action!

01/06/2025

Hear directly from the incredible youth who joined us for First Waves programs this year! Their reactions and impressions highlight the power of connecting with nature, building confidence, and fostering environmental stewardship through the art of filmmaking, river surfing, and conservation.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of our dedicated volunteers, staff, and the generous support of donors and grantmakers, 2024 was our biggest year yet! We expanded to 9 program areas, serving youth from environmental justice communities stretching from Erie to the Laurel Highlands and across Western Pennsylvania.

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11/25/2024

This year, the Watersmith Guild introduced an all-new curriculum and project series called Aqua Lab Adventures! The program empowered 7th grade students to develop methods for testing local waterways for micro plastics and to become leaders in Environmental Justice. The project came to fruition through partnerships with 's , The National Recreation Foundation, , , and .! Video produced by WG Apprentice, Brennan Emerick.

06/03/2024

Countdown is on for the Live Premiere of the First Waves 10 Year Anniversary Film - Online Premiere! Log on now to watch!

This video celebrates the 10th anniversary of the First Waves Program! Over the past decade, we've empowered countless youth through river surfing, environme...

02/05/2024

Event spotlight! For anyone that has enjoyed the amazing interactive environmental programs at First Waves with our awesome partner, April Claus, here are some fun upcoming activities that she has available this Spring!

08/04/2023

Next week starts the inaugural Alleghenies project in collaboration with the ! Huge thanks to for their Green Line Sponsorship of the project! We can’t wait to get to work with this new group of youth from across Cambria and Somerset Counties!

05/02/2023

Exciting news for First Waves and the The Watersmith Guild! We are the proud recipients of the Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence presented by Governor Shapiro, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, PA DEP, and PA DCNR!

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.

04/22/2023

Happy Earth Day everyone! 🌍 Today, we're thrilled to announce the upcoming release of "Watermarks", the latest film project from The Watersmith Guild in partnership with Malhari Media. Watermarks" takes us on a journey of discovery, showing us the beauty and importance of our planet's most precious resource: water. We see how one person's dedication and passion for paddling, surfing, filmmaking and conservation can have a ripple effect, inspiring others to take action and make a difference in their communities.

This Earth Day, let's all remember the importance of protecting our planet's natural resources, and the power that each of us holds to create positive change. Stay tuned for more updates, screening dates, and online releases, and let's all work together to create a more sustainable and just world for future generations.

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To find screening dates and information about the release of the film, please visit: www.watersmithguild.org

11/29/2022

It's Giving Tuesday! Help us reach more youth, watersheds and communities with The Watersmith Guild and First Waves! The program supports underserved communities and provides unforgettable experiences in watershed conservation, the art of filmmaking, SUP, river surfing, and much more! Learn more and donate at the link! https://www.firstwaves.org/take-action