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Jit i T11 _ - -ADVOCATE: ABOUT US OUR MISSION is to be an independent voice that defends, advocates, and activates others for the protection and restoration of the St. Johns River. WE BELIEVE that the unique natural beauty and ecological integrity of the St. Johns River System must be preserved and remain accessible for the enjoyment and benefit of current and future generations. WE PROMISE to advocate for policies and restoration actions based on sound science and responsible economics, and to speak on behalf of the river with an independent voice that citizens can trust. HISTORY Chartered in August 1999 and licensed by the Waterkeeper Alliance in December 1999, St Johns RIVERKEEPER is a membership -based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that serves as an independent voice and advocate for the St. Johns and the public to whom it belongs. WATERKEEPER ALLIANCE The Hudson River Fishermen's Association first introduced the "Riverkeeper" concept in the U.S. in the mid -1980's, as a result of local fishermen losing their family fishing grounds to industrial and domestic pollution and a lack of enforcement by regulatory agencies. Today, more than 270 other Waterkeeper organizations around the world have emerged as part of the Waterkeeper Alliance to protect public waterways from pollution and other threats. ADVOCACY For over fifteen years, St. Johns RIVERKEEPER has been at the forefront in addressing some of the most pressing issues facing the St. Johns River, such as toxic algal blooms, fecal coliform pollution, surface water withdrawals, and wetland and habitat loss. Our staff and volunteers patrol the river on a regular basis; investigate pollution incidents; respond to complaints and resolve problems; monitor compliance and ensure that environmental laws and policies are consistently implemented and enforced; and attend public meetings and participate on important committees to represent the interests of the St. Johns, our members, and the public. EDUCATION & OUTREACH St. Johns RIVERKEEPER is a leader in providing quality educational materials and resources to teachers and the public about the river. We have developed an interactive virtual tour of the St. Johns River, three award-winning documentaries, a 170 -page guidebook for exploring the river (Get Your Feet Wet), the St. Johns River Exploration Backpack Project for schools, a comprehensive River Friendly program, and lesson plans and curriculum for teachers. We also regularly provide eco -tour boat trips, educational programs, cleanups and outreach events for the community. CONTACT For more information, contact Lisa Rinaman, your St. Johns Riverkeeper at Lisa@stjohnsriverkeeper.org or 904- 256-7591. 2800 Unnvcrstn Bled. N. ST. JOHNS _ _Jackson,illc. FL 32211 RIVERKEEPER (114)256-7591 1 stjohnsriverkccperorg L•I