Ottawa Riverkeeper

Ottawa Riverkeeper is a trusted leader and champion for swimmable, drinkable, and fishable waters throughout the Ottawa River Watershed. We provide leadership and inspiration to protect, promote, and improve the ecological health of the Ottawa River and its tributaries. Ottawa Riverkeeper is equal parts educator, scientist, advocate, watchdog, coalition builder, and community spokesperson. We are a licenced member of Waterkeeper Alliance, an international network of water protection organizations.

The Ottawa River Watershed is part of the world’s largest freshwater ecosystem and is home to over 2 million people. The watershed spans two provinces and the river flows through our nations’ capital. There are over 300 municipalities, 10 Algonquin Nations and one Mohawk Nation within the watershed boundaries.

Ottawa Riverkeeper has grown to become the strongest and most trusted independent voice for the protection of freshwater within our vast watershed. We have catalysed partnerships and collaborations to work on important issues like sewage spills, nuclear waste management, plastics pollution and watershed governance to name a few. Media consistently turns to Ottawa Riverkeeper to keep the public informed about their river.

Our organization is dedicated to connecting individuals to their local water bodies and empowering them to become water leaders, to stand up when necessary to protect the water where they live.