River Protection Program

The Yadkin Riverkeeper® River Protection Program sponsors a full-time Riverkeeper licensed by the National Waterkeeper® Alliance. The role of the Yadkin Riverkeeper is to protect water quality throughout the Yadkin River basin through routine patrols, analyzing sewage discharge permits, and working with regulators and elected officials to enforce compliance with the federal Clean Water Act and NC pollution control laws.

Yadkin Riverkeeper engages citizens in clean water issues through education, investigation and public participation to promote sustainable development practices that will accommodate growth without compromising the long-term health of the Yadkin River. Our river protection program is responsible for monitoring the entire 7,200 square mile Yadkin River basin—NC’s second largest—which is why we need your help.

North Carolina’s rapid population growth, particularly the Triad region, is having a profound impact on the Yadkin River. This unprecedented growth is threatening drinking water supplies and recreational opportunities like fishing and swimming, as well as damaging habitat for aquatic life throughout the Yadkin Pee Dee River basin. 

Population expansion will result in greater demands for drinking water from the Yadkin River. More people also means increased discharges from sewage treatment plants, additional pollution from roads, lawns and parking lots, and ultimately more sediment from construction stormwater runoff. As a result, we face tremendous challenges.  Your support will enable us to continue this important work so that future generations can depend on this important natural resource.

Donate to the River Protection Program