Community Programs
We educate and inspire community members to take positive action and stewardship in their local watersheds.
We provide education on local watershed issues and offer community-led solutions. Through partnerships with local government, businesses, and homeowners, WaterWays empowers community members to improve their local water quality.
Projects & Restoration
WaterWays coordinates and supports restoration projects throughout the Southeastern US and in the Caribbean. There are mounting threats to watersheds and ultimately human health. To tackle these issues we utilize local and national grants and rely on our incredible community members to make lasting and impactful change.
RainSmart Yards
In partnership with the City of Chattanooga and Hamilton County, the RainSmart Yards initiative was founded in 2018 under the name My Tennessee: Clean Water Starts Here. This award program recognizes creek-friendly yards that capture and retain stormwater during rain events, as well as create habitat for native plants and pollinators.
Nature By the Pint
Nature by the Pint is a monthly gathering held at The Greenhouse by OddStory Brewing, organized by WaterWays, that features a public talk on engaging conservation and/or nature-related topics.The goal is to promote enthusiasm for our natural world in a fun, spirited, and accessible way, while enjoying a drink and meeting new people.
Tennessee River Rescue
The Tennessee River Rescue is an annual community-led clean-up of the Tennessee River and some of its tributaries. This event occurs on the first Saturday of October every year. It began over 36 years ago with a group of Chattanooga residents that were motivated to have the community clean up the river. The River Rescue has grown to include over 50 sites spanning and seeing over 1,000 volunteers on average.
Adopt-A-Waterway
Adopt-A-Waterway allows individuals, families, and organizations to commit to ongoing stewardship in their local streams throughout the Tennessee Valley Watershed. Adopting a stream means a two year commitment to the segment of your choosing, with at least one stewardship project required every year. You will be recognized on site with a sign, and supported by WaterWays throughout the adoption process.
Education
Environmental education is at the core of everything we do. We work with students and educators in the Southeastern U.S. to create an immersive education experience, whether that means bringing the field to the classroom or the classroom to the field. Our programs deepen the connection between our own daily lives and the health of our environment. We offer field trips, classroom based outreach and more!
