President
Kerry Mackin

Treasurer
 Mark P. Smith

Clerk
Deirdre Menoyo

Staff
Julia Blatt, Executive Director
Susan Beede, Policy Director

Moderator, River Advocates Forum
Heidi Ricci

Board of Directors
 Chair:
Deirdre Menoyo, Sudbury, MA

Board Members:
Sue Bass, Belmont, MA
George Comiskey, Georgetown, MA
Ian Cooke, Maynard, MA
Shep Evans, Stockbridge, MA
Kerry Mackin, Ipswich, MA
Pam Resor, Acton, MA
Heidi Ricci, Shirley, MA
Mark P. Smith, Belmont, MA
Maria Van Dusen, Boxford, MA
Mettie Whipple, Plymouth, MA

Mailing address

Massachusetts Rivers Alliance
62 Summer Street
Boston, MA 02110

To join the
Massachusetts Rivers Alliance

Please download, fill in and mail one of the following forms along with dues:

Membership Form for Individuals, Families and Businesses

Membership Form for Organizations

 

For more information

Please click here to email us

 

 

 

 
  

   About us:
   New Alliance to Protect Rivers

A new nonprofit organization, the Massachusetts Rivers Alliance, has been formed to restore and protect the rivers and streams of Massachusetts and the ecosystems they support, by developing practical, effective policy solutions to provide a sustainable future for our rivers and the Citizens of the Commonwealth. This Alliance brings together organizations and individuals throughout Massachusetts, who are working together to improve river protection through advocacy and education, to apply an effective, unified statewide approach to the critical issues facing our rivers and streams.

The rivers and streams of the Commonwealth, together with the watersheds that support them, are important natural resources, essential to the quality of life in our communities. They provide water that supports people, the economy, and diverse ecosystems, and are an important part of our heritage.  Yet the vitality of our rivers and streams is threatened by overuse, excessive nutrients and other pollutants, dams and other blockages, and the effects of climate change.

  Local problems emblematic of larger statewide issues.

The Rivers Alliance focuses on issues that affect rivers, streams, and watersheds across the state. Many local problems are emblematic of larger statewide issues. Massachusetts is fortunate that most of our rivers have effective local voices for their protection.  At least 26 organizations are dedicated in whole or part to the protection of our watersheds.  Yet, until now, there was no non-governmental group focused on protecting all of our rivers statewide.  The Alliance works to make connections between local or regional problems and statewide policy and action, identifying solutions that will be effective across the Commonwealth.

  Working cooperatively across the state.

The Rivers Alliance works cooperatively with watershed associations, statewide environmental organizations, and other individuals and groups who share the Alliances vision and goals, and works in conjunction with its members to address issues of mutual concern.

Massachusetts has a long and proud history of leadership on environmental protection, including pioneering laws to protect water resources.  Yet our rivers and streams continue to suffer from degradation, and these problems require new and innovative solutions.  Federal, state and local policies and programs must do a better job of protecting the physical, biological and chemical integrity of our rivers.  To be successful, these policies must integrate the consideration of water quality, water quantity, and habitat with the water supply, wastewater management, infrastructure, and development needs of our communities.  These policies must recognize the interdependence of water resources, reflect the latest developments in science and technology, and provide consistent and workable solutions.

  Concerns we are working to address:

  • Ensuring that there is enough clean water for people, and for fish and other aquatic creatures;

  • Improving water conservation and efficiency;

  • Managing stormwater better to protect against floods and improve water quality and low-flow

  • Restoring rivers and wetlands and addressing barriers such as dams and culverts;

  • Keeping water local, and integrating water supply, wastewater, and stormwater management to optimize water conservation, recharge, and quality;

  • Adapting to the effects of climate change such as increased flooding and droughts;

  • Helping ensure adequate funding for the state agencies responsible for protecting the Commonwealth's water resources.

The Rivers Alliance is working to educate the public and leaders about these issues and advocates for innovative, cost-effective solutions, in cooperation with a wide range of stakeholders.