How We Advocate
Coosa Riverkeeper acts as the voice of the Coosa River and works to amplify the voice of each of our communities. From educating Elected Officials to hosting town hall meetings, we work to ensure the Coosa Community feels empowered to protect this mighty river.
SCIENCE & DATA COLLECTION
Our science and data collection helps us better understand where the Coosa is being impacted from pollution and where the Coosa is thriving and needs to be protected. This work looks like:
- Collecting water quality samples for parameters such as E. coli, PFAS, and Nitrogen
- Reviewing Discharge Monitoring Reports from industrial permits
- Analyze the threats at large to see where policy could be implemented
- Review legacy pollution (PCBs) remediation to be the most protective of our communities and river
- Submitting comment letters to state agencies to be more protective of the river and its critters
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Our Community Engagement works to make our Coosa community aware of threats in their neck of the woods, educated about the issue, and empowered to protect their land and water. This work looks like:
- Alerting Coosa communities when threats to their quality of life or ways of life are or will be impacted by pollution
- Hosting town hall meetings for communities facing threats to understand the issue, the impacts, and their next steps
- Educating the general public and elected officials about the Coosa Watershed, including its assets and its threats
INFLUENCING DECISION MAKERS
When it comes to protecting our natural resources, we are working to have a seat at the table to speak for the Coosa and the communities that rely on it. This work looks like:
- Building meaningful relationships with Elected Officials and decision makers, and educating them about their district or community. From city councils and county commission meetings, all the way to the State House in Montgomery – we are there connecting, engaging, and educating.
- Attending and participating in state agency and regulatory agency meetings (like the Environmental Management Commission or Forever Wild)
