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The Connecticut River Conservancy restores and advocates for clean water, healthy habitats, and resilient communities to support a diverse and thriving watershed. Sign up for Email Updates For questions about our newsletters or programs, contact us at crc - at - ctriver.org or 413-772-2020.

The Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) restores and advocates for clean water, healthy habitats, and resilient communities to support a diverse and thriving watershed. Thank you for supporting our mission. Deer Paths Nature School by Beth Pelton Source to Sea Cleanup Welcome to the Source to Sea Cleanup, a powerful and effective community event spanning the length of the 410-mile Connecticut River watershed in NH, VT, MA, & CT. Each fall, volunteers of all ages and abilities come together to do their part and spend a few hours making the water cleaner, the river banks safer, and the wildlife happier. The 2024 Cleanup has now passed, and group leader registration will reopen in July 2025! See the Registration Site The Annual Source to Sea Cleanup will be back in 2025 Get your gloves and trash bags ready, the goal of the Source to Sea Cleanup is to remove as much trash as possible from our waterways, riverbanks, and communities. Trash moves from land to water, from upstream to downstream, and together we can make a BIG impact in preve nting this trash from ending up in our rivers. The 28th annual Source to Sea Cleanup was held on September 27-28th, 2024 The 29th annual event will be back in September, 2025 See the Cleanup Site In 2024's Source to Sea Cleanup: Overview Get a summary of the initiative and how you can participate. Get the Basics Cleanup Site Map & Resources See our new registration platform for all the details. Get Started Trash Advocacy Learn more about how to prevent & reduce trash in our rivers. Stop Trash Sponsorship This event is held every year thanks to generous support from local sponsors. Sponsor Details Sign Up for Voluntee r Email Updates If you'd like to know when new volunteer opportunities become available, or just keep up-to-date with Connecticut River ne ws and events, sign up here and then return to this page. Overview of the Cleanup Getting Dirt y for Cleaner Rivers What began as a group of volunteers organizing to remove trash from local rivers over two decades ago has become a hugely popular annual event that brings communities together in support of clean water and healthy habitats throughout the Connecticut River watershed - in New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. Volunteers are organized into groups with Group Leaders coordinating details at different trash sites (Group Leader and volunteer registration is now open! ). Trash tallies are also gathered after each cleanup, contributing to Connecticut River Conservancy's long-standing database which is used to inform our work in advocacy to reduce future pollution , support river restoration , and inform the public and policy-makers of issues affecting the environment. Trash tally results throughout the watershed show that in 2024 117 groups collected over 39 tons of trash - and there'll be more next year! See our Cleanup Chronicle for more details. Get the 2024 Cleanup Chronicle 2024 Cleanup Volunteers Gallery Stay Tuned or Get in Touch Our 2024 Source to Sea Cleanup registration platform is chock full of resources. Make sure you're signed up for our email list to get updates. Want to reach out for any questions in the meantime? Contact Stacey at slennard at ctriver.org. Trash Advocacy All Year Round While the Source to Sea Cleanup is all about picking up trash in our waterways, streets, and parks – it is also part of a greater effort that includes recycling our waste, speaking up for legislative actions to reduce pollution, and advocating for producers to develop products that are less harmful for the environment. We are pleased to see that after years of advocacy by Connecticut River Conservancy and partners, a Tire EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) bill has passed in Connecticut , becoming the first of its kind in the nation. This new legislation will decrease illegal tire dumping, save municipalities money, and boost tire recycling. On the flip side, legislation does not always go as we hope, as in the case of Vermont’s bottle bill – which would add containers like water bottles, juice bottles, and wine bottles to the list of redeemables – getting vetoed in 2023. Our River Stewards regularly comment on permits and legislation to steer policy in a more river-friendly direction, and we encourage you to sign up to our state-based eblasts at ctriver.org/email to get river updates and action opportunities in your state. Most Common Items Found in Cleanups Plastic Bottles Electronics Styrofoam Tires Aluminum Cans Clothing & Footwear Nips Toys Glass Bottles Cigarette Butts Construction Items Automotive Speak Up For Cleaner Rivers All it takes is a series of small actions by lots of people to make a big impact on our rivers. Through personal power and responsibility, we can keep our rivers clean for all to enjoy. Wondering how you can make a difference? Start with a few small steps: Multiply your impact — Invite friends, family, and co-workers to join you in this effort. Speak up for your rivers — Contact your elected representatives, show them the trash problem and let them know this is an issue that is important to you and deserves their attention and legislative action. Use the power of your purchase — Tell businesses what products to make and sell; purchase only reusable items and refuse single-use plastic and foam. Lead by example — Don’t litter and properly dispose of your waste — no wish-cycling ! Get involved when there's a bill — Sign up for CRC's state-specific advocacy emails which include action alerts for when there is legislation you can directly support (or oppose!). #RiverWitness As you venture out to enjoy the great outdoors, share your river experience by using #RiverWitness and tagging @ctriverconservancy on Instagram. We’ll be on the lookout to share. Show the beauty of your favorite river spot or tributary, or use this opportunity to document the not-so-pretty side of pollution to raise awareness for the importance of conservation. Source to Sea Cleanup Sponsorship The success of the Source to Sea Cleanup reflects the partnership of individuals and businesses who do their part to help clean up our region’s waters. This community event would not be possible without the support of business leaders like you. We hope you’ll consider joining us at the sponsorship level that is right for your business. Why Sponsor? Demonstrate your commitment to the environment Increase your business exposure through generous media coverage and other promotion Provide your employees an engaging and meaningful team-building opportunity "The Source to Sea Cleanup proves to have a tremendously positive impact for our rivers and communities. The Walker Group was happy to support the initiative as a sponsor and get our own staff involved at a local cleanup event advocating for cleaner waters!" –Cheryl Elmore, The Walker Group Purchasing Manager, Community Service Lead See the Sponsorship Benefits All 2024 Sponsors If you’re ready to sign up as a sponsor, you can complete our online form. If you would prefer to discuss sponsorship and/or request a Sponsorship Benefits Package, please contact Brett Morrison, CRC’s Development Director, at 413-772-2020 ext. 218 or 802-375-4519 or bmorrison at ctriver.org . CRC’s Source to Sea Cleanup has teamed up with Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup and American Rivers National River Cleanup , for cleaner waterways around the U.S. and the world. For any questions about the Source to Sea Cleanup, email us at cleanup at ctriver.org.

The Connecticut River Conservancy restores and advocates for clean water, healthy habitats, and resilient communities to support a diverse and thriving watershed. We protect, restore, and advocate for the Connecticut River Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate Connecticut River Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the Connecticut River watershed in New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. We collaborate with regional partners to restore and advocate for your rivers, and educate and engage communities. We bring people together to prevent pollution, improve habitat, and promote enjoyment of the river and its tributary streams. Join us to support healthier rivers today! Clean Water Through advocacy to prevent pollution and water quality monitoring to track data. Healthy Habitats Through dam removal, tree planting, and migratory fish programs. Resilient Communities With river recreation access, community science, & Source to Sea Cleanups. Our Mission & Programs Sign Up for River News! Sign up to get emails about river news and events. Choose Your Newsletter Latest Video: Unified Water Study 1,146 Tons of trash removed from rivers 30 Old dams & culverts removed 97,186 Trees planted in the watershed 150+ Sites annually tested for bacteria Connecticut River Conservancy Rehab of Historic Building at Greenfield HQ: Community Input Requested Funds will be used for rehabilitation projects in the First Franklin County Courthouse, a historic 1813 building occupied by CRC. From the Ridge to the River: What It Means to Be a Citizen of the Watershed Connecticut River Conservancy joined Nolumbeka Project and Western Mass Rights of Nature at Greenfield Community College Speak Up for the Connecticut River! The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) is having a public comment period from January 24th – February 24th, 2025 River Stories from Around the Watershed Latest News More River News We envision a future where people and wildlife can enjoy a clean, free-flowing Connecticut River. Upcoming Events Wed, Mar 12 Policy Implications for Water in 2025 (and Beyond) / Online: LiveStream Event Learn More Mar 12, 2025, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Online: LiveStream Event Sat, Mar 15 Plunge for Adventure - All Out Adventures Fundraiser / DAR State Forest Learn more Mar 15, 2025, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM DAR State Forest, 78 Cape Street, Goshen, MA 01032, USA Come join us as four brave Connecticut River Conservancy staff members plunge into ice cold water to support All Out Adventures annual fundraiser! Sat, Mar 22 Connecticut Land Conservation Conference / Wesleyan University Learn more Mar 22, 2025, 8:00 AM – 5:15 PM Wesleyan University, 45 Wyllys Ave, Middletown, CT 06459, USA Sat, Apr 05 Connecticut River Valley Environmental Summit / Middletown Learn more Apr 05, 2025, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Middletown, 45 Wyllys Ave, Middletown, CT 06459, USA Sat, May 03 Swap Meet & Craft Show - Hartford Power Squadron / West Marine, Old Saybrook Learn more May 03, 2025, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM West Marine, Old Saybrook, 1667 Boston Post Rd, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, USA Bring the kids and have a fun time at this outdoor event hosted by the Hartford Power Squadron! Learn About: Migratory Fish Migratory fish are essential to healthy river ecosystems. The Connecticut River hosts 8 species of migratory fish that travel thousands of ocean miles and over 200 miles upriver annually. CRC's migratory fish restoration efforts include advocating for and expanding fish passage and raising awareness through community science and education. Learn More

driggs at ctriver.org 413-772-2020 She/Her < Back Donna "Lucky" Riggs Finance Assistant Donna joined CRC in September 2023 and has been biking to work at CRC Headquarters ever since. In her free time, she likes being outside, exploring the world, DIY'ing, and finding ways to be creative. driggs at ctriver.org 413-772-2020 Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate

kbuckman at ctriver.org 603-931-2448 She/Her < Back Kate Buckman Aquatic Ecologist Kate became CRC's Aquatic Ecologist in 2025 after serving as the River Steward for NH since 2022. She spent much of her career prior to joining CRC involved in marine and freshwater research. She received her bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from Smith College where she worked on coral reef ecology and education in Belize and her PhD from the MIT/WHOI Joint Program in Oceanography where she focused her thesis research on the ecology of fish at hydrothermal vent systems on the East Pacific Rise. Kate made the short trip north back to her home state of New Hampshire in 2010 and spent many years at Dartmouth College as a member of the Toxic Metals Superfund Research Program studying trophic transfer of mercury and assisting with community science programs in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. When not contemplating how awesome fish are, Kate can often be found puttering in her yard and gardens, hanging out on the porch pondering which house project to tackle next, or walking her wiggly dog around the neighborhood. kbuckman at ctriver.org 603-931-2448 Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate

sstegeman at ctriver.org 413-772-2020 ext. 200 He/Him < Back Sam Stegeman Operations Manager Sam joined CRC in 2024, and he is likely to be the person to answer your call to the office or greet when you visit the CRC Headquarters in Greenfield. He graduated from Brown University with a degree in Environmental Studies. Prior to CRC, Sam served nine years as the Executive Director of the Vermont Wilderness School in Brattleboro and five years on the program team at Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) in South Deerfield. Sam spent his adolescence in the Westport River watershed of southeastern Massachusetts, and since 2006 he and his family have lived alongside the South River in Conway. He got to know CRC through volunteering for water quality monitoring, and today is thrilled to bring his affinity for nonprofit development to such a great organization with such a fun and dedicated staff. sstegeman at ctriver.org 413-772-2020 ext. 200 Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate

gchevalier at ctriver.org 413-834-9932 She/They < Back Gabrièl Chevalier Recreation/Restoration Prog. Manager Gabrièl officially joined the CRC team as Lab Manager in 2018 after assisting with CRC’s water monitoring program through an internship with the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources. She tests water samples collected from rivers, streams, storm drains, and flowing pipes for the presence and abundance of E. Coli bacteria to determine whether those water bodies meet or exceed the State Water Quality Standard. Before working at CRC, she worked with the Appalachian Mountain Club as a data analyst and GIS specialist. She holds a degree in Geology and Environmental Science from Mount Holyoke College. Gabrièl grew up in Western Massachusetts and is excited to be working with CRC to study and protect the waters in this region. Her love of the local rivers began with canoeing trips along the Deerfield River, extended through college where she rowed daily on the Connecticut River and continues today with her work at CRC. gchevalier at ctriver.org 413-834-9932 Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate

kurffer at ctriver.org 802-258-0413 She/Her < Back Kathy Urffer Director of Policy and Advocacy Kathy joined CRC in 2017. Prior to moving to Vermont, Kathy was Special Projects Manager and Operations Director for Hackensack Riverkeeper in New Jersey. In addition to managing the staff and day to day finances of the organization, she developed and ran their river cleanup program, assisted with their canoe and pontoon boat eco-cruise programs, managed stream restoration projects, and fish advisory, outreach and education projects. More recently she has served on the Board of the Southeastern Vermont Watershed Association, the Windham Regional Commission, and has worked on education projects related to wastewater treatment. Kathy holds a M.S. in Natural Resource Management from Antioch New England University, a B.A. in Psychology from Rutgers, and is a former Vermont Leadership Institute Fellow from the Snelling Center for Government. She is a self-taught amateur botanist and herbalist and enjoys re-learning about the natural world through the eyes of her two children. kurffer at ctriver.org 802-258-0413 Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate

acunningham at ctriver.org 413-450-8785 She/Her < Back Amara Cunningham Executive Assistant Prior to joining CRC in November 2024, Amara spent a large portion of her career working in admissions and development in educational settings. She has lived in the Connecticut River Valley in three out of four watershed states (New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts). Her curiosity and appreciation for the natural world led her to CRC; she is enthusiastic about doing meaningful work to protect the river, its habitats, and all the species that call the watershed home. Amara lives in Western Massachusetts with her partner Tom, a dog, and two cats. Outside of working hours, she might be exploring Atlantic White Cedar swamps, digging in vinyl record crates at a vintage shop, or playing the flute. acunningham at ctriver.org 413-450-8785 Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate

lherbert at ctriver.org 413-772-2020 She/Her < Back Laura Herbert Staff Accountant Laura Herbert joined CRC as Staff Accountant in 2022. She holds a BS in Elementary Education and has taught in the classroom and as an environmental educator. Since beginning her career in finance and administration, Laura has worked in corporate consulting as well as in the non-profit sector. Additionally, Laura has a lifelong passion for conservation and has worked for various environmental groups doing invasives removal, species inventories, rare plant surveys, and design and implementation of land management plans. She has also developed environmental conservation curricula for students K-6. Laura is a licensed wildlife rehabilitator with a specialty in the care of rabbits and turtles. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring natural areas and honing her skills as an outdoorswoman. lherbert at ctriver.org 413-772-2020 Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate

rrhodes at ctriver.org 413-772-2020 ext. 214 He/Him < Back Ron Rhodes Director of Programs Ron joined CRC in 2011 as the northern NH & VT River Steward, before transitioning in 2020 to leading our Restoration Program where he spent most of his time removing old dams, planting trees, and working with landowners and partners to implement river restoration projects. Ron has served as the project manager for 29 aquatic organism passage projects, opening more than 425 miles of habitat. Now, Ron is the Director of Programs where he leads CRC’s various aquatic and riparian habitat programs (Aquatic Invasive Species, Migratory Fish, Recreation & Access, Restoration, and Water Quality Monitoring) throughout the watershed in NH, VT, MA and CT. rrhodes at ctriver.org 413-772-2020 ext. 214 Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate

akaplan at ctriver.org 413-834-7953 They/Them < Back Alix Kaplan Content Coordinator Alix joined CRC as Content Coordinator in 2023. Their first experience on the Connecticut River was working with the Invasive Aquatic Plants Crew pulling water chestnut. Previously, Alix worked as an environmental educator in Baltimore, MD and as communications coordinator for a chamber music nonprofit. Alix graduated with a degree in Environmental Studies from Tufts University. They enjoy experimental animation, drumming, and looking under their microscope at various algae specimens. Going on hikes with Alix will take double the amount of time since they must stop and look at everything. akaplan at ctriver.org 413-834-7953 Our Mission Get to Know Our Mission, Vision, & Values Upcoming Events Register to Learn & Connect Get Involved Volunteer, Participate, or Donate