Our Mission

The Coalition was formed in 2012 to protect and restore the land and waters in the Delaware River Basin. We amplify the collective power of 180+ member organizations and other stakeholders as we advocate for a healthy and protected watershed with an inclusive, unified voice. The Coalition convenes member and non-member organizations, builds capacity, coordinates communications, and advances policy at the federal and state levels.

OUR VISION

Our vision is a Delaware River Basin recognized as one of America's Great Waters, providing clean water, healthy habitat, and accessible outdoor recreation and public access. The Coalition’s advocacy efforts will be inclusive and promote participation and collaboration so the Basin is robustly funded and sustainably managed to support people and wildlife.

In 2020, the Coalition adopted a 5-year strategic direction, providing the tools our network needs to be successful. We will continue to use our collective voice to advance watershed-wide planning, federal funding, and advocate for federal and state issues. Our plan details our goals, objectives, and activities to create an equitable and inclusive network to benefit both people and wildlife across the Delaware River watershed. View the strategic direction document here. 

OUr VALUES

DIVERSITY: The Delaware River watershed is defined by its landscape and community diversity. Protecting and restoring the lands and waters for future generations requires that we respect and work together with people with different ideas, strengths, interests, and cultural backgrounds.

EQUITY: All people — regardless of race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ZIP code, health and ability status, or any other consideration — have equal value, and opportunity to participate fully in all dimensions of the Coalition. We are dedicated to dismantling barriers that impede equitable opportunity. 

INCLUSIVITY: We will be most effective when our coalition includes organizations that are large and small, urban and rural, established and new, progressive, and conservative. We will strive to intentionally include and represent all voices.

COLLABORATION: We will achieve the greatest positive change through partnerships and a bipartisanship advocacy strategy that requires open and clear communications with decision-makers and stakeholders. 

LEADERSHIP: The Coalition strives to be innovative in strategy and mobilization within the watershed, particularly on issues that require a common voice. In doing so, the Coalition aims to be a nationally recognized model for collaborative watershed protection.

TRUST: We serve as a trusted voice and resource for our watershed members and beyond. The Coalition thrives on a culture where organizations put forth the best intentions to promote trust as we achieve shared goals. 

SUSTAINABILITY: The Coalition is committed to sustainable policies and practices that provide economic, social, and environmental benefits for all residents of the watershed and for future generations to come.