Big Muddy Speaker Series presents:

The origins of the Waterkeeper movement date back to 1966, when commercial and recreational fishermen, many of them veterans, united to save the Hudson River in New York. Their outspoken, citizen-led advocacy ensured that laws were enforced and that their river, livelihood, and the health of their families were all protected. With this, the first Riverkeeper was born.

In 1999, Waterkeeper Alliance was founded to support the growing number of Waterkeepers, Riverkeepers, Baykeepers, Coastkeepers, etc. popping up to protect local waterways across the country. Today, Waterkeeper Alliance is the largest and fastest growing network of clean water advocates in the world.

Waterkeepers are the voice for the rivers and defenders of the fundamental human right to clean water. These water wardens patrol local waters, identify and investigate pollution, monitor water quality, work collaboratively to address river issues, advocate for compliance with clean water laws, and prosecute those who willfully violate them. Through community engagement and education, their goal is to energize local communities around water issues and empower you to protect your right to drinkable, fishable, swimmable water.