Understanding how nature and the environmental movement are not always universally accessible is an important step in breaking down barriers to participation and fostering inclusion. One form of exclusion can be found in eco-ableism, or the centering of able-bodies over individuals with disabilities in ecological and environmental lenses. In other words, assuming there is equal access to advocacy, natural areas, or environmental work–especially in regards to individuals’ physical and mental capacities– is harmful to all individuals within environmental movements.
Fitzpatrick and Blunt Rochester to Lead Bipartisan Delaware River Watershed Caucus
August 22, 2022
WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) has announced Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) as the new Co-Chair of the Congressional Delaware River Watershed Caucus. This bipartisan caucus gives voice to funding and conservation needs throughout the watershed.
Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed Celebrates $14 million in Grants to Improve the Health of the Delaware River Watershed
Wilmington, DE (August 25, 2022) – The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation announced today 36 Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund awards totaling $14 million, which includes $4.9 million in funds made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Grantees have committed $14.2 million in match, for a total conservation impact of $28.2 million that will restore and protect our land and water resources.
Civic Engagement Toolkit: Nonpartisan Resources for 501(c)(3) Organizations
In collaboration with the Choose Clean Water Coalition, we have create a Civic Engagement Toolkit for the 2022 election year. The toolkit includes information on voter registration, voting methods, voting deadlines, social media posts, graphics, email templates, blogs, and a variety of valuable civic engagement resources. The toolkit also includes an upcoming events section (located at the bottom of the toolkit) which highlights important civic engagement dates for your organization to keep in mind. This toolkit is continuously being updated, so make sure to check it often for any additional information being added. You can access the toolkit here.
Climate Statement: Inflation Reduction Act
Trenton, NJ (August 16, 2022) - Historic climate legislation, known as the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (H.R.5376) was passed in both chambers, and signed into law by President Biden.
“The impacts of climate change are already being seen and felt across the Delaware River Basin, which threaten over 13.3 million people who rely on the waters of the Basin. It is essential that we forge a path forward to reduce the impacts of climate change on our communities and limit the devastation in the future,” said Kelly Knutson, Director of the Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed (CDRW). “We applaud Congress in addressing the urgency of a global climate crisis and look forward to supporting the administration on implementation. The Coalition recognizes this step forward and will continue to advocate for additional policies to further protect the region’s natural resources.”
Congressional Subcommittee holds HAB roundtable at Lake Hopatcong
In a summer that has seen clear skies, hot temperatures, and cloudbursts, it is not surprising Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) have been appearing in bodies of water throughout the region. Ever since the summer of 2019, when Lake Hopatcong experienced a prolonged lake-wide HAB, local residents have been well aware of how impactful algal blooms can be. Since then, most regional bodies of water have witnessed HABs and even New York’s Lake George has not been immune. The significant recreational and economic impacts caused by HABS have caused concern for both our local, state, and federal officials.
Introducing our new Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) Intern, Emma Boxer!
12 Parks and Trails to Explore in the Delaware River Watershed
July is Parks and Recreation Month, so what better time to highlight some of the wonderful parks and trails that sit within the Delaware River Watershed? Exploring local parks and outdoor recreation areas are often our first experiences in nature when we’re young, and as we grow older these places continue to offer space to relax, enjoy our favorite hobbies, get our bodies moving, connect with the community, and to gather with friends and family.