Protecting the Apalachicola River and Bay requires genuine teamwork. We’re all in this together! Apalachicola Riverkeeper remains unwavering in its mission to protect the Apalachicola River and Bay. 2019 was filled with both accomplishments and sizable challenges. Moreover, the U.S. Supreme Court case, FL v. GA, remains in play while the freshwater flow to the Apalachicola River, which supports the health and productivity of the floodplain and the Apalachicola Bay, remains in decline. Thank you for your steadfast support! We simply could not do it without you. In 2020, Apalachicola Riverkeeper will continue the essential work of advocacy, outreach, education and collaborative research. This includes continuous efforts to curtail oil and gas drilling activities in the Apalachicola River Basin. Simultaneously, we’re moving forward on new projects like our water quality monitoring program. In 2020, we’ll also embark on a significant, multi-year slough restoration project that will reconnect three sloughs to the main river channel during times of low flow, ultimately enhancing freshwater flow to East Bay.

Thanks to our members and supporters, over the past year Apalachicola Riverkeeper: Boosted our River Patrol efforts and stepped up our visual survey reports. Secured funding for a Water Quality Monitoring Program. After Hurricane Michael, we recognized the need for independent, responsive water quality testing. Microplastics sampling was also launched in 2019.

Removed 6 tons of trash and debris in a single day from the shores and water of the Apalachicola River and Bay alongside 375 volunteers during the annual International Coastal Clean-Up. Led our 12th Annual RiverTrek public outreach and fundraising campaign. This dynamic group of kayaking volunteers spent months working in their respective communities raising both funds and awareness for the protection of the Apalachicola River. And, the support crew volunteers energized us all with their seamless assistance. Built the framework for a multi-year Slough Restoration Project to begin Spring 2020. Watch for progress updates on our website and social media.

Joined advocacy forces with 13 other Florida Waterkeepers. Waterkeepers Florida has formed to work collaboratively to improve the state’s water quality policies, especially in the areas of pollution prevention and pollution violation enforcement.

Continued the legal challenge to the Army Corps of Engineers’ Environmental Impact Study (EIS). The flawed EIS guides the Corps’ updated Water Control Manual which is used to manage the freshwater flow from upstream reservoirs.

Worked with regional stakeholders and conservation allies to bring continued attention to the potential and lasting impacts of oil and gas drilling on rivers, streams and groundwater of the Apalachicola River watershed.

Led monthly eco-educational hiking and kayak outings throughout the Apalachicola River Basin for community members with emphasis on regional history and ecology Continued the Vegetation Research Project with University of Florida researchers seeking methods of slowing bank erosion and other negative effects of channel dredging of previous years.

Conducted numerous educational motorboat trips for community leaders, elected officials, media members and others to demonstrate the connectivity of the Apalachicola River and Bay system. This advances the understanding of the inextricable connection of the region’s ecology and economy. As you can see, Apalachicola Riverkeeper remains actively committed to its mission. Your contribution supports our continued work. Gift memberships are also a thoughtful way to recognize a special occasion. Your timely, tax-deductible gift will further our efforts to protect the Apalachicola River Basin. Read more and sign up for updates at www.apalachicolariverkeeper.org