“Small But Mighty” Rivers: Resilient and Healthy River Communities Series

The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) invites you to a briefing showcasing four “small but mighty” rivers in the United States and the unique ways their communities are rising to meet environmental and climate challenges. Although much attention is paid to America’s largest rivers, smaller rivers across the country are also excellent case studies in adapting and responding to acute and long-term environmental challenges.

At this briefing, panelists working with communities along these crucial rivers will discuss best practices for river health and resilience. The Eel River in California, designated as Wild and Scenic by federal authorities, has seen its stakeholders push for dam removal to restore river health and safety, while stewards of the Carolinas’ Catawba River are working to limit dangerous runoff from concentrated animal feeding operations. Meanwhile, Vermonters along the Winooski River face flooding challenges that demand resilience strategies, and D.C. is working to limit sewage overflow into the Anacostia River to make it swimmable.

Small and medium-sized rivers like these are the lifeblood of many communities, and federal policymakers can play an essential role in enabling and invigorating local solutions.