Westport River Watershed Alliance

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Who We Are:    
The Westport River Watershed Alliance (WRWA) is a nonprofit, environmental education and advocacy group formed in 1976 to protect and conserve the natural resources of the Westport River and its 100-square mile watershed located in Southeastern Massachusetts at the entrance to Buzzards Bay.  The Westport River watershed encompasses the Massachusetts communities of Westport, Dartmouth, Fall River, and Freetown as well as Tiverton and Little Compton in Rhode Island. 

WRWA's projects focus on the following goals: to promote environmental integrity; to advocate stewardship of the watershed's natural resources; and to educate the general public about the interrelationship of our waters, soils, plants, animals, and people.  WRWA has established itself as a leader in the environmental grassroots movement in New England, and is considered a role model for other communities.

What We Do:    

  • Provide our Watershed Education Program to over 1,600 school children in Westport and surrounding communities annually. 

  • Monitor the Westport River for bacteria and nutrient pollution. We have collected data since 1991.

  • Partner with the Town of Westport, state agencies and other organizations to address the latest watershed issues that impact the river's ecological health.
  • Provide Grants - WRWA’s Watershed Improvement Fund - This fund was established in 2006 to provide partial funding for projects that will make a significant contribution to improving the environmental health of the Westport River watershed. Contact WRWA's director for more information.

  • Attend public meetings to advocate for the protection of the watershed's resources.

  • Offer interpretive river tours, guest speakers and workshops for the public.

  • Host annual River Run a family kayak/canoe paddle on the East Branch of the Westport River.

  • Publish our newsletter, River News, to raise awareness of local environmental issues.

  • Sponsor annual beach cleanups and participate in CZM's annual COASTSWEEP.

  • Serve as a resource to the local community.