Clearwater’s environmental action programs have gained a wide reputation in the Hudson Valley for effective science-based strategies in the public interest. From original research on large-scale issues, to support of small grassroots community groups, we employ a range of innovative and traditional citizen advocacy techniques designed to restore and protect the quality of the Hudson River watershed. Our environmental action staff is composed of highly motivated, accomplished men and women with degrees in the environmental sciences, assisted by interns from area colleges, contract specialists, and volunteer advisers from many professions.
A number of state and federal laws create the statutory framework in which we operate, but all too often the laws prove ineffectual or the agencies implementing the laws become vulnerable to political pressure. Guided by a set of core environmental values, staff members work cooperatively with concerned citizens, elected officials, and state and federal regulatory agencies to find alternative solutions. Public awareness is one of our primary strategies, since an educated, concerned citizenry is a powerful force for change. As a last resort, we will litigate to protect the environment.
Our objective is a Hudson River ecosystem free of harmful pollutants, with ample habitat to sustain the reproductive integrity, health and well-being of life at all trophic levels—including human. Some of our specific watershed-scale issues include the twenty-year battle to remove PCB contamination from the Hudson River, forming a sustainable development alliance to mitigate the negative effects of development pressure, and fighting the excessive use of pesticides. We are also active in many large scale local problems, such as the Manhattan west side waterfront, Indian Point nuclear reactors, and New York/New Jersey Harbor dredge spoil disposal.
