Ottawa Riverkeeper is a citizen-based action group that brings people together to protect and promote the ecological health and diversity of the Ottawa River and its tributaries. Expert and independent, our organization advocates for responsible decision-making, public education, participation, access to information, and compliance with protective regulations, for the benefit of our river and our communities.
Ottawa Riverkeeper is licensed member of Waterkeeper Alliance, an international grass roots advocacy organization, founded by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. http://www.waterkeeper.org
We take action to defend the Ottawa River, and to influence decisions that affect the health and future of the river. We work collaboratively, to enforce protective regulations and seek effective solutions. By providing clear science-based information, we aim to engage the public and empower citizens to become advocates for the protection of our river and our communities.
The Ottawa River is clean and healthy. Its water safe for drinking and swimming, supporting a diversity of species, inviting recreation and enabling sustainable economic activity. Knowledge, shared pride and respect for the river are the foundation for its protection in perpetuity.
Science leads our thinking. The decisions we make regarding the river stem from good science produced by expert, independent sources.
Responsibility must be taken. Polluting should have a price, just as stewardship should be rewarded.
Participation is essential. All citizens should have the opportunity to contribute to decisions that affect the health and future of their river.
Every effort counts. By taking small steps to save our river—both as individuals and collectively—we can achieve important positive change.
Water is the thread connecting our communities and our actions. The choices we make and steps we take have consequences for our river, our region and our health.
Rivers reflect the places through which they flow. Healthy rivers reveal well-informed, active and responsible communities.
Work collaboratively to establish a knowledge base to allow effective and science-based reporting on the changing health of the river and the implications of our actions.
Advocate for changes in practices and policies to improve the ecological health of the river and its watershed.
Expand, strengthen and inspire the network of river stewards who act on behalf of the river and its watershed.
Increase awareness of Ottawa Riverkeeper, river-related issues and the actions being taken throughout the watershed to protect the river.
Build the organizational capacity to enable Ottawa Riverkeeper to thrive and achieve its mission.