On May 20, SRWA participated in the 1st State of the Waters Conference which brought together representatives of federal , Massachusetts and New Hampshire state agencies, as well as regional organizations such as Nashua River Watershed Association, OARS, Merrimack River Watershed Council, several New Hampshire groups and others. Presentations were made outlining the many ongoing water monitoring projects; what was being done and results -all relating to the Merrimack River watershed- with the purpose of sharing information among all interested parties.
Proceedings culminated in an open discussion about possibly creating a Merrimack Alliance, moving toward an integrated watershed plan, and the need for, in some cases, better outreach and communication with the public to express the efforts being made to maintain and improve water quality as well as the beauty, benefits, and recreational enjoyment our rivers provide.
With respect to the latter, SRWA is proud to have a long history of public involvement through numerous river clean-up programs, engaging volunteer participation, and providing the opportunity to participate in many SRWA sponsored paddling events.