from The Board president
from The executive director
Dear Charles River Supporters,
Dear Friends,
I have been thinking about belonging deeply to a place, to a city, and how that
feeling may be increasingly rare in this country. As Americans, we think of
ourselves as largely unfettered and imagine that we can pull up stakes at will in
search of opportunity. The Boston area is a magnet for movers like that; decades
ago, I came here that way myself. But I have lived within three blocks of the
Charles for 30 years, and I am not going anywhere. This place really matters to me,
and I suspect to you too.
Occasionally, when I have a problem to work through, or I’m frustrated, or even
when things seem to be coming together, I’ll wander out our office front door and
walk along the river awhile. There is a timelessness in its meanders, a kind of calm
and forbearance.
But who speaks for the Charles River? For 47 years, the calm, persistent,
stunningly well-informed voice speaking up for our river has been Charles River
Watershed Association. To sustain public access, keep the river on an ever-cleaner
course, and approach the dream of true swimmability, our river needs all the
detailed, data-driven, nuanced advocacy that CRWA can provide. The Charles
cannot seek out its own scientific assessments, or monitor its own health and
water quality, or hire its own lawyers.
It is wonderful to celebrate and appreciate the Charles. But celebrations are no
substitute for science. Appreciation is no substitute for advocacy. The river needs
an expert advocate, a scientific voice. CRWA is that voice.
When we look at the water, we only see the surface. But of course nearly all of the
river is invisible, underneath. The vital work of CRWA is invisible, too – below the
surface of our awareness when we watch children kayak or rowers race or herons
wade. But it is as essential to the health of the river as the current itself.
The voice of CRWA is the most powerful voice of the Charles. And it is, truly, the
chorus of our voices together. I am so proud and grateful to work with all of you,
people who love this place and our sweet old river, and feel inspired to serve it. As
the climate changes and government support retreats, the Charles needs us as
never before and I hope you will join me in raising the funds and spreading
the word.
When I reflect on it, the indignities we’ve visited on the Charles over our hundreds of
years of acquaintance are but a moment of very serious indigestion in its 12,000 year
history. Of course, this doesn’t absolve us of responsibility, nor make the need for
transformation any less acute, but it does help put us in perspective.
“The Charles is the
backbone of our city
visually, geographically
and culturally, and it
has played that role for
ages...”
Tom Sieniewicz,
2012 Board President
“From building
demonstration
projects, to reforming
environmental
regulation, to working
with and educating
interns and large teams
of volunteers, CRWA is
transforming the way
we look at and manage
water in the Charles
watershed.”
Bob Zimmerman,
Executive Director
These recent moments and years have been hard on environmental organizations.
Macro-economics and macro-politics have bent in difficult, often self-serving ways,
and they have affected our bottom-line. Nevertheless, like the Charles, with a kind of
calm and forbearance, CRWA has persevered.
Our research has led us to conclusions about the nature of the water environment
and the transformation necessary if we are to fully restore the Charles, mitigate
climate change, and adapt to its vagaries. The pages of this Annual Report are
replete with descriptions of what we’re doing. From volunteer efforts to the
construction of innovative water infrastructure we are, slowly, presiding over
real change.
And it is perhaps worthwhile to view our work over a longer arc, recalling from
whence we came in 1965, and where we’re going. Few understand what true
environmentally sound transformation looks like, but CRWA does, and not just for
this moment, or next year, or even the coming 10 years, but for the coming century.
From that perspective, CRWA is a truly remarkable organization.
For those of you who support us and our vision, thank you.
Yours,
After that, let’s go fishing.
Robert L. Zimmerman, Jr.
Executive Director
Tom Sieniewicz
2012 Board President
PAGE 2
CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
PAGE 3
Rita Barron: In Memoriam
Staff and Board
In 2012, CRWA lost a very dear friend, former Executive Director Rita Barron, who
passed away on August 30th.
CRWA Staff
Robert L. Zimmerman, Jr.
Executive Director
Mark Fabian
Watershed Engineer
Margaret Van Deusen
Deputy Director and
General Counsel
Alexandra Ash
Office Manager and
Events Coordinator
Kate Bowditch
Director of Projects
Amy Rothe
Director of Advancement
and Communications
Suzanne Carleo
Controller
Pallavi Mande
Director of Blue Cites
Julie Wood
Senior Scientist
When Rita came to the helm of CRWA in 1973, she had one goal: to convince
everyone the much-polluted Charles was worth saving. Dubbed the “Goddess
of the Charles,” Rita spent nearly two decades changing attitudes by raising
awareness about the Charles and its value to communities.
Rita with Governor Michael Dukakis
Roger Preston
Membership Assistant
Elise Leduc
Rita Barron Fellow
Lauren Ballou
Rita Barron Fellow
(l-r) Amy Rothe, Margaret Van Deusen, Suzanne Carleo,
Alexandra Ash, Mark Fabian, Julie Wood, Robert Zimmerman,
Lauren Ballou and Kate Bowditch. Not Pictured: Elise Leduc,
Pallavi Mande and Roger Preston
2012 Board of Directors
Tom Sieniewicz
President
NBBJ
Ralph Abele
Vice-President
U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency
Eric Ekman
Treasurer
Berkeley Investments, Inc.
Edward Englander
Clerk
Englander, Leggett
& Chicoine, P.C.
Lee P. Breckenridge
Northeastern University
School of Law
John Clark
Clark Planning, Inc.
Scott Darling
U.S. Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Administration
Laurie Doyle
U.S. Trust, Bank of America
Private Wealth Management
Diane Hall
Wellesley, MA
Beatrice Nessen
Boston, MA
James Healy
Boston Duck Tours
Stephanie Pollack
School of Public Policy & Urban
Affairs, Northeastern University
Jonathan Katz
JDK Associates
Linda McLane
Weston, MA
Jerry Murphy
M. Steinert & Sons
Sarah Slaughter
Built Environment Coalition
Robert F. Sproull
Northampton, MA
William J. Tedoldi
proVENTURE Business
Group, Inc.
2012 Board of Advisors
Beedee Ladd
Co-Chair
John DeVillars
George Lewis
Margot Pyle
Maureen Febiger
Sharon Malt
David Smith
Richard Forte
Richmond Mayo-Smith
John Thomas
Jeffrey Bilezikian
Kim Herman Goslant
Kelly McClintock
Edward Watts, III
Gordon Burnes
Elizabeth Johnson
Greta Meszoely
Caroline Dixwell Cabot
Carolyn King
Louisa Miller
Eugene Clapp
Virginia Lawrence
Jeryl Oristaglio
Laurie Doyle
Co-Chair
PAGE 4
CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
“Smart, clear-headed
people like Rita
Barron, armed with
basic knowledge, a
long-term planning
perspective, the ability
to relate warmly to
people, persistence,
the courage of their
convictions and a
few basic techniques
to get people to pay
attention, are genuine
treasures. We are
very fortunate that
Rita found her way to
CRWA in 1973 and
stayed the course
for 15 crucial years...
Rita has enriched all
our lives and left a
priceless legacy.”
Lois A. Levin,
CRWA member since 1977
Rita’s input was crucial in drafting and passing legislation that began to restore
and protect the Charles River and its watershed. Her advocacy was instrumental
in the preservation of 13-square miles of wetlands under the U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers’ Charles River Natural Valley Storage Project. The Natural Valley
Storage Area wetlands, located throughout the upper and middle portions of
the watershed, prevent downstream flooding, provide extensive natural habitat,
replenish water supplies and filter out many pollutants.
Rita also encouraged the community at large to change long-held negative
perceptions about the polluted Charles. She promoted river recreation by
organizing the first Run of the Charles Canoe and Kayak Race in 1982. Now the
largest flat-bottomed boat race in New England and a time-honored Boston
tradition, the Run of the Charles hosts thousands of participants and spectators
every year.
During her 15 years as Executive Director, Rita’s work for the Charles was
recognized by many, including President Carter’s Administration, the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency and the United Nations.
The Rita Barron Fellowship
CRWA’s Rita Barron Fellowship continues Rita’s tradition of mentoring new
environmentalists. Begun in 2005, and graciously funded by The Harold
Whitworth Pierce Charitable Trust, this yearlong Fellowship offers recent
graduates in engineering and science the opportunity to gain real-world
experience at a cutting-edge environmental non-profit.
CRWA’s 2012 Rita Barron Fellows, Lauren Ballou and Elise Leduc, directed CRWA’s
Volunteer Monthly Monitoring Program; conducted field work, GIS analysis and
mapping; and assisted with CRWA’s Smart Sewering Project.
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
PAGE 5
Crwa: saving the charles river since 1965
1965
CRWA is founded by citizens
to address concerns about
the deplorable condition of
the Charles River
1966
The Standells record their hit
song “Dirty Water,” which
highlights the famouslypolluted Charles River
1972
Congress passes The Clean
Water Act, empowering
CRWA to advocate on behalf
of the Charles
1974
As a result of CRWA’s
advocacy, the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers preserves
the Natural Valley Storage
Area, 8,000 acres of
wetlands which prevent
flooding, provide natural
habitat, replenish water
supplies, and filter out
pollutants
1994
1994
PAGE 6
Boston
A CRWA volunteer collects Charles
River samples for analysis
Hopkinton
CRWA and the Charles River win the
2011 Thiess International Riverprize
CRWA begins its Volunteer
Monthly Monitoring program,
enabling “citizen scientists”
to contribute to the health of
the Charles
CRWA sucessfully advocates
for a stringent Long-Term
Combined Sewer Overflow
Control Plan, which
minimizes combined sewage
overflows into the river
during storms
CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
American shad fry are released
into the Charles River
CRWA inaugurates Blue
Cities, which advocates
for water-sensitive urban
development
2004
With support from CRWA,
State and Federal agencies
reintroduce the native
American shad to the Charles
2006
Charles River receives a
grade of “B++” on the Charles
River Report Card, the best
grade since the EPA began
reporting in 1995
2007
CRWA and the Town of
Littleton, MA, begin plans
for Smart Sewering, a
project that protects river
flow by treating wastewater
effectively and locally
2010
CRWA completes extensive
pollution budget studies,
known as TMDL, of nutrients
in the Charles
2011
The first stocked American
shad returns to the Charles
River to spawn
2011
CRWA and the Charles
River win the prestigous
Thiess International Riverprize,
for excellence in river
management
2011
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
PAGE 7
The Charles River: CRWA’s Innovative Urban
Laboratory
Empowering the Community
Every summer since 1998, CRWA staff and interns have collected water samples
each week at four sites in the lower basin. Because it takes over 24 hours to
determine the bacteria count in a given water sample, CRWA staff used the data
collected each week to develop a model which forecasts daily bacteria levels in
the lower basin. The model then predicts whether the Charles River will likely
meet boating standards on that day. The data collected by CRWA in subsequent
summers is used to preserve the accuracy of our forecasting model.
Producing Sound, Independent Scientific Data
In order to protect the health of the Charles River, we have to understand it
thoroughly. To this end, CRWA manages a rigorous field study and research
program and the knowledge gained through water monitoring, data analysis, and
geographic analysis becomes the backbone for all CRWA programs. Our advocacy
and design work are directly influenced by CRWA’s science: we advocate for
policies and create green infrastructure designs based directly on our scientific
knowledge of the Charles River. One day each month, our energetic team of
trained volunteers, or “citizen scientists,” heads out at daybreak to 35 sites along
the river to collect water samples, measure depth and temperature, and record
river conditions.
Water samples collected by CRWA volunteers are analyzed by a lab monthly
for bacteria, and quarterly for nutrient levels. Sampling data is then entered
into CRWA’s water quality database. This data is accessed by CRWA, the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, towns, and environmental agencies to help
identify problems in the Charles and develop programs to improve water quality.
In 2012, CRWA staff recruited and trained 13 new monthly monitoring volunteers,
developed an online refresher course for current volunteers and strengthened the
water quality database. Additionally, in 2012, CRWA completed a comprehensive
analysis of water quality in the lower Charles River to further the work of the
Charles River Water Quality Commission.
2012 CRWA Intern Cait Chiquelin travels to
collect water samples in the Charles River
Lower Basin. Source: CRWA
2012 Volunteer Monthly Monitoring Volunteers
CRWA volunteer Mohammed Abdul
Hannan collects samples at the
Massachusetts Avenue Bridge site in the
Charles River Lower Basin. Source: CRWA
A blue flag, an indication of suitable
boating conditions, flies over Riverside
Boathouse. Source: CRWA
CRWA volunteer Bruce Green monitors
dissolved oxygen levels in the Charles River
Lakes District. Source: CRWA
“[By] volunteering
with CRWA, I’m
contributing to the
overall health of the
river from which
I’ve gotten a lot of
enjoyment over the
years. It is a great
way to connect to
other people in the
community who share
some of my values
and interests.”
Pat McHallam,
Monthly Monitoring
Volunteer since 1999
CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
Liz Adler
Michele Forte-Cruz
Lisa Mawn
Marc Shelikoff
Shahidah Ahmad
Kent Fox
Matt McCaffrey
Norm Sieman
Craig Austin
Tim Fulham
Patrick McHallam
Lillian Simons
Claire Barker
Christina Gasbarro
Brian Merson
Amber Baurley
Gianna Gioioso
Barbara Meyer
Donald E.
Skenderian
Tim Baurley
Mohammed Abdul
Hannan
Christopher Moore
Steven Belmonte
Jeff Bilezikian
Damon Carter
In addition to our ongoing monitoring programs, CRWA began monitoring
dissolved oxygen levels in the Charles River Lakes District in Newton and
Waltham in 2012. Adequate dissolved oxygen is necessary for the survival of fish
and is a major signifier of river health. The data collected on dissolved oxygen
levels, combined with our Geographic Information Systems mapping capabilities,
which highlight the spread of invasive water chestnuts, will help CRWA to
understand the threats to the Lakes District ecosystem, and will give us the power
to advocate for effective solutions.
PAGE 8
Every year from July through October, CRWA delivers a daily public notification
on boating standards and river water quality through a phone hotline, daily email,
Facebook and Twitter announcements and a system of color-coded flags that
fly at 12 participating boathouses along the Charles River lower basin. With this
program, CRWA provides boaters and other recreationalists with the information
needed to make informed decisions before taking part in Charles River activities.
Dora Chi
Wayne Chouinard
Adele Coyne
Dylan Davies
Diana Denning
Kathy Diamond
David Dobrzynski
Anna Doyle
Deb Drexler
Debbie Dreyer
Elizabeth Dreyer
Ross Dreyer
Mina Elnaccash
Peter Everill
Earl Fahey
Raymond Harpin
Allan Heff
Matthew Henderson
Fred Hewett
Andrea Jenison
Emilie Kaden
Kirill Kantorovich
Nancy Kay
Susan Kieffer
Heather Knowlton
Srivat Krishnamachari
Virginia Lawrence
Jonathan Leavy
Joshua Lieberman
Michal Lieberman
Amanda Lucier
Steven Mach
John Mandigo
Shawn Moore
Ira Morgenstern
Van Morrill
Aaron Morris
Bill Nicholson
Brad Nissenbaum
Kenneth Nugent
Shirley Parish
Pat Polimeno
Stephanie Radner
Susan Redlich
Frank Reitter
Gail Reitter
Dianne Rice
Kate Rowe
Shantu Salvi
Michael Sperry
Sumeeta Srinivasan
Katie Stanchak
Sandy Starr
Tom Stevens
Brent Sutter
Bill Tedoldi
John Thurston
Adrien Tofighi
Karen Tracey
Tammy Viggato
Hugh Walsh
Bradford Wheeler
Paul Whelan
Peter Wilson
Leslie Wu
Walter Yarbrough
Bob Schlauch
Justus Schwabedal
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
PAGE 9
CRWA Programs: Turning Science into Action
In 2012, CRWA continued work in Chelsea, MA with the Mystic River Watershed
Association and the Chelsea Collaborative on a project to incorporate Blue Cities
techniques in a green infrastructure plan for Broadway, a major thoroughfare in
Chelsea. In August, community members and youth from Environmental Chelsea
Organizers (ECO) discussed ideas for incorporating green infrastructure strategies
along Broadway at a CRWA-led design charette.
Armed with knowledge gained through the laboratory of the Charles River, CRWA
made great progress with our key projects in 2012. Built on a foundation of CRWA
science, these projects are designed with one major objective: to bring real and
sustainable change to water management in the Charles River watershed and
beyond.
Blue Cities
In the Charles River Watershed, much of the urban and suburban landscape is
paved over with parking lots and roads or serves as the foundation for houses
and buildings. These impervious surfaces prevent water from absorbing into the
ground during rainstorms; instead it flows quickly into storm drains and to the
Charles River gathering pollution and debris along the way.
Through our scientific research, we know that we must mimic nature in the
urban environment to retore the river’s health. In nature, rainwater seeps into
the ground where it lands. Pollutants are filtered out while the rain replenishes
groundwater reserves, feeds plants and trees and slowly makes its way back to
the river.
CRWA’s Blue Cities initiative applies these natural strategies to the urban
environment. While these technologies can be sophisticated and tailored to
specific sites, the basic idea is simple: use soil and plants to capture, filter and
treat rainwater from paved areas before it enters the Charles River. Gardens and
trees in public areas not only help clean the water, they also create greener, cooler
and aesthetically pleasing communities.
The Waltham Watch Factory Lofts in
Waltham, MA, designed with Blue Cities
concepts. Source: CRWA
Community residents participate in a
CRWA-led design charette, where they
discussed ideas for green infrastructure
opportunities along Broadway in Chelsea,
MA. Source: CRWA
Blue Cities National
“Those plants have a
hard life with the street
so close...So it’s good
we are giving them a
soft bed of dirt.”
On the national level, CRWA has established a partnership with River Network and
local partners to explore options for developing Blue Cities projects in Louisville,
Kentucky and Rochester, Michigan.
In 2012, CRWA used infrastructure data and geographic analyses to understand
the natural and man-made stormwater infrastructure in the Middle Fork of
Beargrass Creek. Using this information we identified specific areas for possible
Blue Cities restoration projects that can be implemented by River Network and
their local partners in Louisville.
Kindergarten student at the German
International School of Boston
Given the success of our work with River Network, CRWA has formed partnerships
with watershed groups in Michigan to identify Blue Cities opportunities for the
Clinton River Watershed. We are creating designs for three sites along Paint Creek
(a tributary of the Clinton River) in the cities of Rochester and Rochester Hills and
hope to continue working with our local partners in the coming year to implement
these designs.
In 2012, we continued our work along Everett Street in Allston and implemented
a second rain garden at the German International School of Boston. Community
volunteers and students from the German International School of Boston came
together to plant this beautiful garden designed to catch and treat stormwater
from the parking lot along Brentwood St.
This project not only helps keep polluted stormwater out of the Charles, but
also shows students and volunteers how green infrastructure can beautify their
community.
PAGE 10
CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
Participants suggested rain gardens to catch stormwater flows from parking lots
adjoining the street, rain barrels for storing roof runoff, and trees pits and planters
for treating runoff from the street and sidewalk. Using the proposed ideas and
working closely with partners and stakeholders, CRWA is developing a greening
plan with designs for green infrastructure retrofits on both publicly and privatelyowned land along Broadway and adjacent streets. In the coming year CRWA,
Mystic River Watershed Association, Chelsea Collaborative, the City of Chelsea
and the Massachusetts Area Planning Council will use the plan to create a greener,
healthier Chelsea neighborhood and a cleaner Mystic River.
Students from the German International
School of Boston help plant perennials and
woody plants in a rain garden adjoining
the school parking lot. Source: CRWA
Before and after: CRWA’s vision of
improvements along the lower Paint Creek,
which provide improved public access and
amenities. Source: CRWA
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
PAGE 11
Smart Sewering
To protect river flow from the effects of water withdrawals for human demand and
development, CRWA is developing methods to treat and manage wastewater more
effectively and locally. CRWA’s Littleton Smart Sewering Project, in partnership
with the Town of Littleton, MA, identified the environmental benefits, financing,
and smart growth opportunities for creating a denser, more vibrant village center.
This plan uses a small-scale wastewater treatment facility in limited strategic
areas and returns the treated water, or effluent, to the ground near where it was
originally pumped.
CRWA’s Smart Sewering Project leverages the availability of water and wastewater
treatment to focus dense growth into a particular place while limiting sprawl into
rural areas or “green fields”. This approach also uses wastewater, in combination
with commercial food waste and septage, as a resource to generate renewable
energy.
In 2012, the Littleton Common Sewer Feasibility Study Committee moved the
project through planning stages, and is now seeking a preliminary design report.
Moving forward, CRWA will continue to advise the Committee as they determine
appropriate locations for effluent discharge to the ground, and prepare the Town
Warrant Article for May, 2013, to secure funding to begin preliminary design work.
CRWA performs a soil assessment of
Littleton Common for the Littleton Smart
Sewering study. Source: CRWA
“The state’s
sustainable water
initiative grew out
of CRWA’s legal
challenges to water
withdrawals. CRWA
brings a powerful mix
of expertise, passion
for the environment,
and strategic thinking
to its advocacy,
and their continued
involvement in this
initiative has been
invaluable to the
Commonwealth’s
rivers.”
Julia Blatt, Executive Director,
Massachusetts Rivers Alliance
Additionally, in 2012, the Board of Selectmen in Wrentham and Sherborn, MA
voted unanimously to approve new Smart Sewering studies for their towns.
Funded by a grant from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, CRWA began
working with community committees in each town.
In 2012, we continued our fight for a full cleanup of a three-acre hazardous waste
dump located along the Charles River and contaminated river sediments at the
former Medfield State Hospital. We worked closely with Medfield residents,
commented on technical reports, spoke at public hearings, and conferred with
the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and
the Division of Capital Asset Management (DCAM), the agency responsible for
the cleanup. In 2011, CRWA filed a wetlands appeal on behalf of itself and
PAGE 12
CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
CRWA also continued our involvement with the rehabilitation of the Longfellow
Bridge in the Lower Basin, appealing to MassDEP to control stormwater runoff
from the Longfellow Bridge into the Charles. This action resulted in an agreement
to improve the constructed wetland and to undertake best management practices
that will significantly reduce phosphorus-laden stormwater from entering the river.
We demanded a public and transparent process to decide the fate of Daly Field,
eight-acres of state-owned parkland along the river in Brighton, MA. As the river
becomes cleaner, there is increasing pressure from private entities to control public
parkland along the Charles. Ensuring public access to a cleaner river and parklands
held in trust for the benefit of all citizens is central to CRWA’s mission. Although a
law allowing for the lease and development of Daly Fields was enacted in the 2012
legislative session, CRWA and citizen advocacy brought this issue into the public
eye, which will make it more difficult for legislators moving forward to convert
parkland to other uses without a robust public discussion. CRWA will continue
our efforts to ensure that if the state enters into a lease for Daly Fields, there is fair
compensation for the loss of parkland, the public retains use of all facilities and
environmental damage is avoided or minimized.
A new framework for sustainable water management grew out of CRWA’s
past challenges to the permitting of water withdrawals by MassDEP. CRWA
participated in an advisory committee, its technical subcommittee, and in smaller
discussions with the MA Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and
its agencies, to keep pressure on the state to develop biology-based streamflow
standards. These standards include protections for fish and aquatic habitats and
are applicable to all water withdrawal permits in Massachusetts. CRWA will
continue to ensure the impacts of new water withdrawals on rivers and streams
are truly mitigated, or offset, by permit recipients.
Law, Advocacy and Policy
At CRWA, our advocacy takes many forms. Backed by a scientific understanding
of the Charles, CRWA supports or opposes legislation and regulations that
impact the Charles River, reviews proposed permits and developments and
seeks to mitigate impacts on the watershed. Whether protecting public access
to the riverbank parklands or negotiating with regulators and businesses to keep
pollution out of the river, CRWA’s science and innovative solutions to watershed
problems serves as the backbone of our advocacy and makes it persuasive.
The Trustees of Reservations. This appeal, along with the MassDEP challenge of
DCAM’s inadequate cleanup, resulted in the suspension of project permitting and
a formal mediation process between the town of Medfield and DCAM in 2012.
Moving forward, CRWA continues to be deeply involved in this remediation.
A building at the former Medfield State
Hospital. Source: CRWA
CRWA’s only client is the environment. We seek sustainable, cost-effective
and economically-viable solutions as we advocate for both resource protection
and sustainable restoration.
CRWA’s work in the state’s sustainable
water initiative will protect rivers from
low flow. Source: CRWA
Longfellow Bridge in the Lower Basin
Source: CRWA
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
PAGE 13
Preparing for Climate Change
Blue Cities Exchange: Putting the Pieces Together to Manage Stormwater
CRWA realizes the importance of creating strategies for adapting to climate
change and more frequent violent storms, extended droughts and high
temperatures. We are already experiencing the impacts of climate change on the
Charles River and watershed communities - impacts that are predicted to intensify
as we approach mid-century.
CRWA’s unique ability to combine science, advocacy and design enables us to
develop cost-effective solutions for reducing water pollution while facilitating
permit compliance in the Charles River Watershed. Our Blue Cities Exchange
Project is built on this multi-faceted approach:
PROBLEM
Our climate change adaptation work explores opportunities for building resiliency
and flood storage throughout the watershed and particularly in the urbanized
metro Boston area, including floodplain restoration, development of green
infrastructure, the re-purposing of sewers, and even novel approaches such as
using parkways, tunnels, and streets for emergency flood relief while protecting
buildings and the public.
In concert with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, CRWA is also evaluating
opportunities to expand and improve the Natural Valley Storage Area – 8,000
acres of wetlands in the middle and upper watershed protected from development
in the 1970’s and largely owned by the Corps. These wetlands provide critical flood
storage capacity and tremendous water quality and habitat enhancement benefits.
These elements are crucial as we work to mitigate extreme flow levels brought
about by development, impervious surfaces, and increased precipitation from
intense storms.
SCIENCE
The Natural Valley Storage Area, 8,000
acres of wetlands, located in the Charles
River Watershed. Source: CRWA
Excessive phosphorus in the Charles
encourages the growth of invasive species
like the water chestnut plant, which deprive
the river of essential dissolved oxygen.
Source: CRWA
ADVOCACY
International Partnership in River Restoration
River restoration efforts are underway across the world, as people are recognizing
the health, economic and quality of life benefits of clean rivers. As the winner of
the International RiverFoundation’s Thiess International Riverprize for the Charles
River in 2011, CRWA has established a “twinning” partnership in the Dominican
Republic to collaborate and share best practices and training. CRWA is partnering
with The Nature Conservancy and the National Environmental School in the City
of Jarabacoa to develop a restoration plan for the Arroyo Yerba Buena River.
This three-year project will build upon concepts and tools in CRWA’s existing
science, outreach and education programs, and support local efforts to restore
an urban river in a key area of economic and environmental importance in the
Dominican Republic. This collaboration will strengthen our own capabilities as well
as CRWA’s ties to the international river restoration community. CRWA hopes to
develop international partnerships with other countries following this project.
MAPPING
The Arroyo Yerba Buena River, CRWA’s new
twinning partner in the Dominican
Republic. Source: CRWA
Tree pits, like this one in Brighton, MA, help
filter phosphorus-laden stormwater runoff
before it enters the Charles River.
Source: CRWA
CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
From 2002-2009, CRWA collected and analyzed data to
determine how much phosphorus the Charles River can absorb
each day before its ecosystem is damaged. CRWA worked with
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
(MassDEP) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) to develop a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) for
nutrients (one of the most protective in the country).
CRWA advocated at the federal level for new regulations that
would limit how much phosphorus could be discharged by large,
impervious properties. EPA developed pilot regulations for three
upper watershed towns, which are expected to be issued this
year. To help residents and business owners implement these
important new regulations, CRWA began developing Blue
Cities Exchange.
Using interactive maps, the Blue Cities Exchange website
will guide landowners as they determine how to best reduce
phosphorus runoff from their properties to meet the new
EPA regulations.
DESIGN
Blue Cities Exchange provides landowners with green
infrastructure design options such as rain gardens and
artificial wetlands tailored to meet landowners’ individual
needs, including aesthetics and cost.
TRADE
For properties without available space or appropriate soils
for on-site stormwater treatment, Blue Cities Exchange will
provide a platform for the buying and selling of “phosphorus
credits” between landowners.
SOLUTION
PAGE 14
Stormwater runoff is the major pollution problem threatening
the Charles today. Fixing this problem remains difficult because
stormwater is discharged from municipal storm drains and also
flows directly over paved properties and roadways, collecting
phosphorus and other nutrients, before it dumps into the river.
Blue Cities Exchange will enable regulated property owners to
reduce phosphorus runoff from their properties as cheaply as
possible. This will result in a healthier, more vibrant Charles
River without crippling local economies.
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
PAGE 15
CRWA Volunteers: The Heart of the Charles
Volunteers are crucial to all of our work at CRWA. They serve as “citizen
scientists”, advocates and planners as they conduct rigorous water monitoring,
place calls to legislators, attend public meetings and provide input for Blue Cities
designs in their communities. Volunteers plant and maintain rain gardens, pull
invasive water chestnuts, assist at the Run of the Charles and clean the banks of the
river every April at the Annual Earth Day Charles River Cleanup. Our volunteers
not only expand the scope of CRWA’s work, but they also serve as some of the
Charles’ most ardent spokespersons.
30th Annual Run of the Charles Canoe and Kayak Race
On Sunday, April 29, 2012, over 1,000 paddlers raced down the Charles River
as part of the 30th Run of the Charles Canoe and Kayak Race, the largest flatbottomed canoe and kayak race in New England.
2012 Run of the Charles Volunteers
“I am very proud
to play a role in an
organization that has
made such a large
impact...CRWA is truly
a unique organization
and one that should be
held up as an example
of the good things
that can happen when
many are committed
to a common cause. ”
David Dobrzynski, CRWA member
and volunteer since 2008
13th Annual Earth Day Charles River Cleanup
On Saturday April 21, 2012, over 4,000 volunteers and community leaders joined
forces to pick up nearly 20 tons of trash from sites along the banks of the 80-mile
Charles River from Milford to Boston. The volunteers came from the watershed
and beyond to remove litter and to beautify the Charles River and its surrounding
parklands in one of the nation’s largest one-day river cleanup events.
Since 2000, CRWA has led a team of dedicated non-profits and community
members to stage this event. Partners this year again included the City of Newton,
Emerald Necklace Conservancy, The Esplanade Association, Charles River
Conservancy, Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, and
State Senator Will Brownsberger’s Office.
Volunteers are the heart and soul of this annual event. CRWA would like to thank
the companies, school groups, families and citizens who made the Annual Earth
Day Charles River Cleanup possible.
2012 Annual Earth Day Charles River Cleanup Volunteer Groups
Mary Sue Ankner
Chris Farrer
Rafael Leonor
Matthew Silverman
Shelly Armstrong
Sandra Farrer
Sujay Mahajan
Andrea Steenstrup
Jeff Arnold
Russ Gardner
Joan Martin
Stefan Steenstrup
Christopher Batoo
Robert Grant
Leo Martin
Ed Sugrue
Ernest Bell
Fran Grossman
Dan McLaughlin
Charles Suprin
Samia Benaziez
Hank Grossman
Dorothy Novak
David Swercewski
Lorraine Blake
Alan Hawksley
Kristen Peters
Ellen Swercewski
Alpha Delta Phi at
Northeastern University Boston University,
Environmental Student
Alpha Phi Omega at
Organization
Boston University
Boston-area Jewish
AltrUHelp
Education Program
Amgen
Box Pond Association
Peter Breeze
Martha Hoffheimer
Christopher Reagan
Russell Taub
Anthropologie
Boy Scout Troop 99,
Franklin
Cub Scouts Pack 310,
Natick
U.S. Government
Accountability Office
Building Impact
Cub Scouts Pack 32,
Milford
Genzyme
A Life to Live
Organization
Community Rowing,
Inc.
Connecticut College
Alumni
April Bucell
Marty Hoffheimer
Susan Reagan
Lela Todorova
Gabriel Carleo
Hellen Huang
Gertrude Reen
Monica Tseng
Alberto Carvahal
Christopher Jensen
Milagros Reyes
John Viggato
Belmont Democratic
Town Committee
Bucknell University
David Coveney
Kate Jurow
Chris Richards
Tammy Viggato
Big Brother
John Cronin
Bob Justrom
John Rivett
Kathy Werner
BigHeartLittleFeet
Group
Bunker Hill Community
College
C.W. Taekwondo
Meg Curry
Christine Jutstrom
Amanda Robichaud
Megan Williams
Biogen Idec
Gina Danca
Michael Keegan
Gianna Romanelli
Brian Yates
Maryann DiPinto
Tara Kelliher
Joe Romanelli
Gila Yudewitz
Blue Heron Footbridge
Crew
David Dobrzynski
Cathy Keuthen
Terri Romanelli
Thad Zeitler
Paul Dzus
Emily Keuthen
Vince Romanelli
Alan Exon
Fred Keuthen
Bob Salow
Earl Fahey
Rhoda Kubrick
Paul Savard
Andrew Farrer
Sean Lehman
Gary Schwartz
Boston Cares, JetBlue
Boston College, Black
Student Forum Boston College,
Procurement Services
Boston University
Academy
CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
Cambridge Boat Club
Dana Hall School
Cambridge Running
Club
Dartmouth Club
Cambridgeport
Boston Bar Association Neighborhood
Association
Boston Cares
CDM Smith
Chapel Hill-Chauncy
Hall School
Charles River School
EYP, Inc
First Parish Watertown
First Unitarian Society
of Newton
Cooperative
Metropolitan Ministries Larry Fisch and Friends
Framingham State
Cub Scouts Pack 200,
University
Medfield
Friends of Hemlock
Cub Scouts Pack 30,
Gorge Reservation
Watertown
ASC YAG
Boston Engineers
Without Borders
PAGE 16
Boston University,
Marine Science
Association
Diamond Girlz MC
Dreyer Family
Edenred U.S.A.
Edgewater Drive Group
The Eliot Church of
Newton
Georgia Tech Alumni
Global Clinical
Operation
Harvard Graduate
School of Education
Harvard University
Extension School,
Environmental Club
Holcim US, Inc
Hotel Indigo
Hyatt Regency
Chelsea Devil Rays
The Eliot Church of
South Natick
Island Neighborhood
Association
CMass Rams Club
Volleyball Team
Emerald Necklace
Martial Arts
Kappa Gamma Chi at
Emerson College
Coca Cola
Refreshments
Emerson College
Kohls, Milford
Colleges of the Fenway
Endicott College
Kohls, Stoughton
Events and Adventures (continued)
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
PAGE 17
2012 Annual Earth Day Charles River Cleanup Volunteers (continued)
KPMG
Massachusetts
Baykeeper
Massachusetts
Convention Center
Authority
Northeastern
University , Stetson
East
Bob Schlauch and
Friends
Northeastern
University, Men’s
Rowing Team
Showa
McGill Alumni
Association of Boston
Northwestern
University Alumni
Club of Boston
Merck Research
Laboratories
Notre Dame Club of
Boston
MIT Sea Grant
Morrison Cleanup
Crew
Mount Ida College,
Outdoors Club
New Balance
New England
Aquarium, Live Blue
Ambassadors
Newton Country Day
School
NSTAR Electric
Oak Hill Middle School
Payette
Douglas Payne
Raytheon
REI
Retired Newton
Residents
Riverside Boat Club
Next Step Living, Inc.
S.A.M.E.
Nitsch Engineering
SAI
Sasaki Associates
Adam Shenker
Sigma Beta Rho at
Boston University
Sigma Beta Rho at
Northeastern
University
Sigma Kappa at
Boston Univeristy
Single Volunteers
Boston
Heidy Ching
Chris Hooper
Nicole Mongeon
Eric Shia
Keith E. Cooney
Jen Howard
Janet Morgan
Billy Simek
Tara Costiner
Catherine Howard
Michael Mullaney
Christine Smith
Imanuela Costiner
Rosa Hsu
Jen Munch
Maureen Smith
Sorin Costiner
Weizheng (Hunter)
Ryan Nadeau
Pat Smith
Andrea Cotton
Huang
Daniel Nadell
Neil Sogard
David Coveney
Dave Hudson
NEAQ
Maria Sogard
Adam L. Crossman
Margaretha Jacobson
Erik Nelson
Desie St. Pierre
Nick Cruickshank
Alex Jimenez
Victoria Nguyen
Kimberley Stanley
Ryan Curan
Zahra Kanji
Doan Nguyen
Carol Sue
Meg Curry
Bee Keswa
Susan Ordway
Jesse Sullivan
Michael Dalesio
Daniel Klenk
Matthew Paisner
Abaya Sundaresan
Gina Danca
Heather M. Knauf
Robert Parker
Shannon Supplee
Andrew W. Daylor
David Ko
Ari Parnes
Dan Swanson
Robert Daylor
Josh Konoff
Virginia Partridge
Darren Tang
D’Anna Detauro
Elizabeth LaJeaunesse
Kate Peck
Po Tang
Whole Foods
Kate Doiron
Traci Lander
Ken Perry
Samantha Tarquato
Wind River
Environmental
Nathan Donahue
Tanya Lane
Mark Pesce
Annie Thomas
Stacy Doyle
Sophie Lee
Akash Phadnis
Pam Tourles
Elizabeth Dryer
Oyama Legela
Quoe Phan
Peter Trocha
Ross Dryer
Walching Leme
Robert Puffer
Boriana Tzvetkova
Debbie Dryer
Luyao Li
John Quinn
Justin Van Der Horn
Bill Duncan
Stelli Li
Dave Rafkind
Michael Vasios
Duncan McFarland
Limil Liang
Sakul Ratanalert
Emily Vogel
Alan Ellingson
Megan Lieu
Gabrielle Raymond
David Wang
Matthew English
Shawn Ligocki
Justin Reed
He Wang
Lenae Fiora
Sue Lin
Mary Reinke
Rick Weir
Nathan Fisher
Ying Loo
Laura Resteghini
Nancy Wells
Rebecca Frechette
Patty Lytuyn
Austin Rose
John Wguych
Miriam Fuchs
Antoinne Machal
Kate Rowe
D. Randall Whaley
Daniel Fuchs
Liz Maikos
Tia Rummler
Simmy Willemann
Allison Gadon
Andres Maldonado
Muriel Ryan
Patrick Wu
Sara E. Gardiphe
Nagina Malguria
Linda Saar
Jia Xu
James Gaylor
Jeff Mangi
Fuana Samuel
Yingzi Yang
Linda Ghilandi
Yair Marcow
Nathan Sanderson
Lusann Yang
Alex Gonzales
Amani Marshall
Corey Sanderson
Cassie Yee
Jocelyn Gonzalez
Stefan Maryaniak
Kruti K. Sanghavi
Johanna Yu
Kelly Greene
Holly Masek
Michael Saris
Jameel Zayed
Nini Gu
Joyce Maxwell
Doug Savidge
Tommy Zhang
Ana Melissa Guerro
Mazemakers
Lynn Scheller
Emily Zheng
Katie Guthrie
Dawn McDaniel
Clair Schlemme
Mary Zheng
David Guthrie
Linda McLane
Shanna Schmidt
Risong Zheng
Alissa Harman
Kevin McLaughlin
Kelli Schultz
Tony Zheng
Ron Hellen
Saloni Mehta
James Scorzelli
Deb Herman
Millenium Volunteers
Shelby Soares Group
James Hicks
Daniel Monego
Lori Shemanksi
TNF
Udea Family
Union Boat Club
U.S. Bank
Virginia Tech Alumni
Association
Watertown Citizens
for Environmental
Safety
Watertown Police
Department
Don Skenderian
Wellesley Natural
Resources
Commission
St. Joseph’s Alumni
Wells Fargo
Starbucks
Wheelock College,
Girls Lacrosse
Team Clean
Team SBS
The Nature
Conservancy
The van der Kolk
Center Glenhaven
Academy
Winsor School
Woodard & Curran
Combating Invasives: Restoring the Charles River Lakes District
Fed by phosphorus pollution, the invasive water chestnut grows so densely in the
Lakes District that it severely limits light, decreases oxygen, harms wildlife, and
prevents boat passage. Left unaddressed, this infestation threatens to put an end
to the Lakes District as we know it. CRWA is tackling this issue through volunteer
hand-pulling, mechanical harvesting, and advocacy. In 2012, 300 volunteers
removed 80,000 pounds of the plant.
In 2012, CRWA worked closely with a new citizen group: Charles River Citizens
Alliance for NOxious weed Eradication (CANOE) to develop a plan for the
eradication of the water chestnut. CANOE, with support from CRWA, has begun
advocacy for a state funded eradication program which is necessary to remove the
invasive plant. In addition, CRWA’s scientific and design work address this problem
at its root by reducing phosphorus pollution in the Charles.
Thank you to all of CRWA’s hardworking Water Chestnut Volunteers
PAGE 18
Jamiluddin Ahmed
Akarsha Bajracharga
Boston Volunteers
Tiffany Chan
Daniel Alverez
Matthias Balille
Sarah Bricault
Sharon Chang
Matthew N. Anderson
Oliver Beagle
Alex Bynum
Benny Chen
Ms Ankner
Peter Blum
Steve Campbell
Cecilia Chen
Gabriel Antonucci
Gary Bogar
Penelope Caponigro
Emily Chin
Tori Armstrong
Boston Cares
Penny Caponigro
CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
“We like the Charles
River Cleanup
because we enjoy
doing it together
as a family and it’s
something we can do
to make the riverside
more attractive
and enjoyable for
everyone.”
Peggy Udea, CRWA member and
volunteer since 2009
“My passion for the
Charles has been
enhanced by joining
forces with CRWA
to help address
this common cause
and improve our
community...”
Bruce Green, CRWA volunteer and
member of the CANOE citizen group
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
PAGE 19
The CRWA Internship: preparing tomorrow’s
environmental leaders
CRWA’s robust internship program provides valuable support to our scientific
and design programs. Each summer, our Watershed Science Interns collect
water quality samples, while our Landscape Design Interns work with our Blue
Cities Director to create designs and proposals for green infrastructure. Our GIS
interns use specialized map-making software to analyze pollution visually and to
develop potential design solutions. All of our interns assist with public outreach by
presenting to school groups, leading volunteers and tabling at events.
Where are they now?
CRWA’s internship programs give participants the technical and professional skills
and experience they need to succeed in environmental jobs in government,
non-profits, and private consulting. CRWA is proud that many of our past interns
have chosen to work in fields related to watershed protection.
Cindy Chu, Junior GIS Analyst at GeoAdaptive, LLC
CRWA GIS Intern, 2009
“My internship with CRWA helped me find my passion
in natural resources and data management...[now I]
help clients develop best management practices for
environmental and urban planning issues.”
Jack Melcher, Enforcement Officer, US EPA Region 1
CRWA Watershed Science Intern, 2009 - 2010
“At CRWA, I was lucky to have access to the expertise of
staff, gaining knowledge about issues and solutions to water
quality problems in eastern Massachusetts. I was able to
build communication skills that are valuable in my work at
the EPA, and continue to use CRWA staff as professional
contacts for political and technical advice.”
Maggie Reilly, Analyst at Analysis Group
CRWA Water Chestnut Intern, 2010
“Through my internship at CRWA, I learned a lot about
the many different ways to be an advocate - my internship
relied on community involvement, which is key to success
in advocacy. CRWA approaches environmental issues from
different angles, but always seeks to involve the community
around the river.”
2012 CRWA Interns
Justin Chenevert
Caitlin Chiquelin
Evan Curtis
Emma Gildesgame
Matt Henderson
Stephanie Hsia
Ian MacLellan
Meghan McCarroll
Saloni Mehta
Jaclyn O’Riley
Elizabeth Pope
Kate Rowe
Bahareh Sanaiemovahed
Ingrid Schulte
Alyssa Wyklige
“I have been given
amazing opportunities
to get involved, like
going out onto the
Charles River to collect
samples, working
with Earthwatch, Inc.,
and teaching Girl
Scouts about water
cleanliness. And I got
to do all this while
working with the great
staff of CRWA.”
financial summary: Fy 2012
October 1, 2011September 30, 2012
Statement of Activity
Revenue and Support
In-Kind 3%
Other 1%
Special Events 5%
Grants 69%
Contributions &
Memberships 22%
Expenses
Revenue & Support
FY2012
FY2011
Grants
$576,703
$776,501
CRWA Fiscal
Sponsorship of
Energy Efficiency
Grant*
$1,060,942
$1,074,845
Contributions &
Memberships
$523,951
$597,293
Special Events
$110,949
$124,927
In-Kind
$66,529
$75,528
Other
$14,443
$7,600
Total Revenue &
Support
$2,353,517
$2,656,694
Expenses
FY2012
FY2011
Program
$1,026,505
$899,986
CRWA Fiscal
Sponsorship of
Energy Efficiency
Grant*
$1,032,710
$1,043,926
Administrative
$160,183
$149,984
Fundraising
$182,226
$168,727
Other
$974
$50,289
Total Expenses
$2,402,598
$2,312,912
Net Change
$(49,081)
$343,782
Fundraising
8%
and Other
Administrative 7%
Programs 85%
Funding Sources (Cash Basis)
Other 4%
Individuals 17%
Meghan McCarroll,
2012 CRWA Intern
Government 5%
Corporations 7%
*CRWA entered into a Fiscal Sponsorship Grant Agreement on
July, 2010 with Serrafix Corporation pursuant to a grant from
the Barr Foundation. With this funding, Serrafix has worked with
municipalities and businesses on energy efficiency programs
in Massachusetts. In FY 2012, CRWA awarded $1,060,942 to
Serrafix, less CRWA’s administrative fee.
Foundations 67%
PAGE 20
CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
PAGE 21
CRWA SUPPORTERS: MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
River Stewards ($500-$999)
Anonymous
Ralph W. and Ellen
Abele
CRWA would like to thank the individuals, businesses, foundations and government
agencies that make contributions and grants in support of our work to protect the
Charles River and its watershed. The list below reflects the generous gifts from our
donors between October 1, 2011 and September 30, 2012.
George P. Baker and
Lauren Jennings
Baker-Root Family
Foundation
Ms. Betty Barrer
Contributions from Individuals and Foundations
Blue Heron Society ($25,000 and up)
ANP Blackstone Fund
of Foundation for
MetroWest
Barr Foundation
Bilezikian Family
Foundation, Inc.
International
RiverFoundation
Cedar Tree
Foundation
The Harold Whitworth
Pierce Charitable Trust
Anonymous (3)
New Balance Foundation Orchard Foundation
Anonymous
Margaret J. Clowes
Dr. and Mrs.
Cecil H. Coggins
Mrs. Eleanor L.
Campbell
Paul A. Cohen
Roy A. Hunt Foundation Mr. and Mrs.
Edward Ladd
John S. and James L.
Knight Foundation
Robert F. and Lee Sproull
Headwater Society ($1,000-$4,999)
Anonymous
Mr. and Mrs.
Frederick H. Abernathy
Mrs. Charles F. Adams
The Paul and Edith
Babson Foundation
Jon Bernstein and
Martina Albright
Louise and Rodrigo
Botero Fund
Brian Burba
Stephen Burrington
and Abigail Swaine
Allan and Martha
Campbell
Mrs. Alfred Chandler
The Chelsea
Community Fund
Mr. and Mrs.
William Cleary, Jr.
Anne and Jim Davis
Wayne R. DiCarlo, Esq.
Alan and Suzanne
Dworsky
PAGE 22
Linda and Edward
Englander
William Lewis
Mr. and Mrs.
Robert K. Faulkner
Sharon and Brad Malt
Allison and Raveen
Sharma
Nancy and Richmond
Mayo-Smith
Tom Sieniewicz and
Martha Eddison
Kenneth and Margaret
McIntosh
The Silver Tie Fund
Maureen and Kevin
McNamara
Stephen Sohn, M.D.
Paul and Nan Feldon
Richard S. and Mariele
Forte
Mr. and Mrs.
Albert Gardetto
Gunst Family Foundation
The Hicks Family
Charitable Trust
Daniella Hirschfeld’s
Green Guided Fund
Mr. and Mrs.
Sturtevant Hobbs
John Holland
Holly and Bruce
Johnstone
Charitable Fund
Carolyn King
Harry and Chris Kirsch
H. Kirsch Family
Foundation Fund
Haven Trust
Eileen Shapiro and
Reuben Eaves
Joel and Elinor Siner
Faith Michaels
Paul Solman
Jane and Robert Morse
Florence Tao
Jerome F. Murphy
Andrew Torchia and
Amy Wu
Elizabeth and Jim
Nichols
Morgan Palmer
Charitable Fund
Venkat Venkatraman
and Carolyn Lattin
Watertown Community
Geri and Douglas Payne Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Holyoke L.
Susan and Stephen
Whitney
Regan
Richard J. Sampson,
M.D. and Valda Zalkalns
“I give...because I
need my river to be
clean and thriving
when I canoe on it,
when I run along
its banks or when I
show it off to visitors,
intoning loudly and
proudly that, ‘Thanks
to CRWA, the Charles
is the cleanest urban
river in the U.S.!’”
Tom Sieniewicz,
CRWA Board President
Michael St. Clair and
Roslin Moore
Eric Ekman
Ed Mattison
Lucy B. Stroock
Janet and Mark Fagan
Thomas and Emily
McClintock
Donald J. and Harriet J.
Swire
Deborah and Timothy
Moore
Arthur and Inge Uhlir
Dr. Kate and Dr. Henry
Faulkner
Kim and Carol Goslant
Carolyn and John Clark
Alewife Society ($5,000-$9,999)
David E. Lurie
David H. Bass and
Susan A. Hall
Dana Cetlin and
Amanda Darwin
Margot C. Pyle
Mrs. Caroline Edwards
Jack and Brenda
Geishecker
Jonathan Bush and
Mandi Dean
American Shad Society ($10,000 -$24,999)
Jonathan Katz and
Norah Wylie
Henry and Sue Bass
Ro and John Bloom
Richard Saltonstall
Charitable Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. George P.
Edmonds, Jr.
Bruce Green
Martin and Debby Hale
Phillip S. Harper
Foundation
Mr. and Mrs.
Donald R. Helm Jr.
Fred Hewett
Lynn and Bruce Holbein
Mr. and Mrs.
Willard P. Hunnewell
Nancy E. Spence
Robert Cushman Woods
Shippen Page and
Ann St. Goar
Van Nostrand
Memorial Fund
Katherine Perls
Harland and Ann Riker
Jeffrey and Jennifer
Robinson
Sheldon and Denisa
Wagner
Brad and Ann Wallace
Mr. and Mrs.
Peter W. Ryan
Suzanne Weinstein
Mr. and Mrs.
Preston H. Saunders
Richard and Christina
Wood
Jon J. Skillman and
Luanne Selk Fund
W. Heinrich Wurm
Gerard Wolf
Sarah Slaughter and
James Newman
Sam Kendall and
Cathie Zusy
River Advocates ($250-$499)
Anonymous (3)
Tom and Jill French
Virginia M. Lawrence
Bill and Candy Saunders
Susan Ashbrook and
Fritz Casselman
Dr. Joyce B. Friedman
Charles R. Lax
Deborah and Arthur
Aulenback
Elaine Garnache
Helaine and Dwight
Golann
Neil Leifer and
Ellen Carno
Edward and Susan
Schofield
David and Sandra Baird
Margaret and Peter
Dr. John and Dr. Barbara Goldman Fund
Balser
Thomas and Abby
Hansen
John and Molly Beard
David Harris
Betsy and Frank Bunn
Levin H. Campbell, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs.
Damon Carter, Jr.
Harry and Mellisa
Mattison
William J. Tedoldi and
Betsy McCurran
Mr. and Mrs.
Henry Harrison
Candace McCann
John and Kathleen
Thomas
Walter G. Hiltz
Deirdre and Richard
Gary and Karen Mueller Ulbrich
Nancy and George
Eric Von Hippel
Mumford
Lawrence J. Wangh
Margaret Murphy
Edward E. Watts, III
Nessen Charitable Fund
Mr. and Mrs.
Bancroft R. Wheeler
Dr. Nan Niland and
Ralph Helmick
Katharine Wolff
William G. Coughlin
Steve and Rosemarie
Johnson
Laurie and Christopher
Doyle
Mr. Frank R. Dunau
Gerald Swislow
Ben and Kate Taylor
Mr. and Mrs.
Thomas Claflin
George H. Darrell, Jr.
and Deborah A. Clark
Elizabeth D. Sweet
James and Sarah Ann
Mahoney
Sally Mapp Walker
Mr. and Mrs.
Carl Johnson
Gene and Gay Crowley
Edward and Joanne
Shapiro
Michael MacDonald
Charles Kane Jr. and
Anne Eldridge
Cathy and Ken Kaplan
Liza Ketchum and
John H. Straus
Kevin Dunckel
Christopher and Susan
Klem
Joan FitzGerald
Trudy Lanman
Christopher Morss
Jennifer M. Paci
Sara L. Wragge
Houston-Read
Family Fund
Margaret E. Richardson
Roberta and Bill Schnoor
CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
PAGE 23
River Friend Continued ($100-$249)
River Friend ($100-$249)
Anonymous (7)
Katrin Aback
Robert H.
Ackerman, M.D.
Edward Cardoza
Charles Chester
Mark S. and Carolyn
Ain
Ms. Margaret Child
Leonard Albano and
Kathleen Baskin
John F. Cogan, Jr.
Alchemy Foundation
Annmarie Allara
Suzanne Allen and
Arlene Duelfer
John Clark
Mr. and Mrs. David S.
Collins
Michael A. Collora and
Clare O’Connell
Duncan Fisher
Robert Flanagan
M. Margaret Fogel
Jane T.N. Fogg
Douglas Foy
Robert H. Friedman
Margaretta Lyon
Fulton
Walter and Anne
Gamble
Stephen R. Connors
Frederic Gardner and
Sherley Gardner Smith
Sylvia and John
Constable
Robert German and
Kate Severinsen
Dr. Robert Cook and
Ms. Jane Reeds
J. Frank Gerrity II
Charitable Trust
Award Fund
Garrett Stuck and
Pamela Coravos
Ernestine Gianelly
Charles and Constance
Bachman
Charles Cossaboom
Mr. and Mrs. John C.
Allis
Israel and Anna
Arbeiter
Mary Armstrong
Mr. and Mrs. David
Barrett
Margaret P. Bartley
Bill and Marilyn Baskin
George and Nancy
Bates
Dr. James C. Beck
Ms. Mary Bell and Bill
Joplin
Barry M. Berger
Suzanne and John
Besser
John Horst and
Barbara Wallace
W. Jeffrey Hughes and
Nancy Stauffer
Michael T. Huguenin
and Sharon L. Chown
Francis W. and Emily
Hunnewell
Prof. Henry Linschitz
and Suzanne Hodes
John and Nathalie
Thompson
Ms. Judith Lippke and
Ms. Cathy Greenspan
David N. Osser
John Lisker
Arthur B. Pardee
Ellen Sarkisian and
John Maher
Anne M. Pearson
Tedd R. Saunders
Representative Timothy
J. Toomey Jr.
Mark Peters
Bruce and Grenelle
Scott
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas
Townsend
John G. Petrasch
Kathleen and Richard
Scranton
Molly Upton
Dr. James H. and
Dr. Beverly K. Philip
Larry Selter
Detlev F. and Dorothy
Vagts
Mr. and Mrs. William
F. Phinney
Stephen and Peg
Senturia
Andrew Von Hendy
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel
Pierce
Mrs. Freema Shapiro
Daniel H. Sheingold
Terri Yahia and Willis
Wang
Patricia Pierce and
Bradford Reich
Gregory Shenstone
Samuel Webb II
Daniel Raizen
Mr. and Mrs. Ross
Sherbrooke
Rebecca Weiss
James A. Read, Jr.
Fred Sillman
Tracy and John Regan
Mr. and Mrs.
Christopher Smick
Douglas A. Hersh and
Sarah A. Little
Jane S. Maddox
Bill Madigan and Kathy
Goodfriend
Edward H. Mank
Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Wesley
W. Marple, Jr.
Audrey May
Roger and Janice G.
Hunt
Mr. and Mrs. Richard
McAdoo
Dr. and Mrs. Adolph
Hutter, Jr.
Walter H. McDonald
Anne Peters
John Goodman
Miriam Jost
John T. McNeil
Ann Dannenberg
David Goodtree and
Leslie Gordon
Michael Kan
Alex and Jill McNeil
Mr. and Mrs. Charles
A. Rheault, Jr.
Susan Davies and
Richard Talkov
Paul and Priscilla Gray
John and Wilma
Kassakian
Susan P. McWhinneyMorse
Henry and Gale R.
Guild
Earle W. Kazis
Lynn M. McWhood
Keally Family Fund
Barbara Meyer and
Michael Perloff
Jim and Sandy Righter
Louisa P. Miller
Deborah Kelsey
Ellen G. Moot
Diane Kemsley
Van Morrill
Neal Kenslea
Seanan Murphy
Marsha Kessler and
David Golden and
Family
Frederick O. J. Muzi
Richard Cryan
Dennie Davis
Richard De Neufville
J. Richard Hackman
Gregory and Beth
DeBor
Joseph and Shelly
Hamilburg
Paul and Helen Dewey
John S. and Nancy C.
Hammond
Ross Dreyer
Kenneth S. Boger
Mr. and Mrs. Edward
C. Eisner
Thomas B. Bracken
Sarah S. Elkind and
Beth Holmberg
Frederick C. Cabot
Hopkinson Charitable
Fund
Jane and Chester Swett
David J. Salant
Kenneth W. Rendell
Mr. and Mrs. Michael
Dukakis
Charles Button
Isabel B. Hooker
Bryan Rydingsward
Susan and Stephen
O’Brien
Richard G. McLaughry
Robert C. Blanks
Robert Brown, M.D.
Abigail B. Homer
Bobbie Norfleet
Tilia Klebenov Jacobs
Senator Cynthia S. and
Mr. Harvey A. Creem
David and Janet Drake
David S. Brown, M.D.
Sue Hickey
Fielding Lewis
Virginia Inglis
Peter and Christine
Black
David and Lora Brody
Ruth Goldman
Fred Hennie
CRWA sincerely thanks
all of our donors for their
generous contributions.
Due to space constraints,
only those donating $100
or more between October
1, 2011-September 30,
2012 are listed here.
Diana, Richard, Maya
and Lily Gomberg
Barbara Coulon
Richard and Kathy
Diamond
Nina Jean Bradley
Peter E. Gluckler, Jr.
John and Catherine
Henn
Mr. and Mrs. Putnam
B. McDowell
Michael and Elizabeth
Bierer
Don and Marcia
Blenko
PAGE 24
David and Jennifer
Campbell
Mark and Joan
Emerson
Kevin and Katherine
Essington
Meade Fasciano
Robert and Barbara
Fine
CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
Steven and Joan
Handel
Michael and Maria
Hanlon
Gabriele and Warner
Harrison
Richard and Joanne
Hartley
Gerard A. Kelly and
Mary M. Kennedy
William L. King
Judy and John Knutson
Charitable Fund
Carolyn Lamb
Andrew Hawley and
Marya Levenson
John Lambert
Peter M. Hecht and
Kristina Jones
John C. and Arlene T.
Heiss
Katherine Nimkin
Louise C. Riemer
Nicholas and Joan
Thorndike
Paul and Jennifer Walsh
Mary Allen Wilkes
Jeffrey R. Williams
Glen R. Williamson
Adrienne Smith
Scott and Anne Wilson
Edwin E. and Katharine
T. Smith Charitable
Fund
Arnee R. and Walter A.
Winshall
Mark Winkeller
Claire and Meir
Stampfer
Joan G. Wislocki
Irene Wong
Cornelia C. Roberts
Mr. Paul S. Greenfield
and Ms. Sandra C.
Steele
David and Fiona
Roman
William and Joanne
Stevenson
Kathleen Rowe
Mr. and Mrs. R.
Newcomb Stillwell
Lee T. Robbins
Susan L. Rowley
Stuart P. Rubinow
and Lucy Sewall
Mrs. Samuel M. Ryburn
Mr. Benjamin B. Stone
Mary F. Wolfson
Mr. and Mrs.
Frederick L. Worcester
Ann and G. Mead
Wyman
E. Kent Yucel and
Tamsin Ann Knox
Sigourney Street
Kara Swanson and
Washington Taylor IV
Zoe Kolligian
John Hawes
Diana and Jon
Haywood
Nagode and Howard
M. Newburg Trust
Norm Richardson and
Daphne Collins
Marsha C. Salett
John and Ann-Mara
Lanza
Mr. and Mrs. David
S. Lee
Douglas B. Lee, Jr.
Mr. Thomas A. Lehrer
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
PAGE 25
Honorariums and Memorial Gifts
Contributions and Grants from Corporations and Organizations
In Memory of Rita Barron
Corporate Gifts ($10,000 and up)
Corporate Gifts ($5,000-$9,999)
Boston Duck Tours
Nitsch Engineering
Ralph W. and Ellen
Abele
Patricia Callan
Victoria Chu
Paula V. Cortes
Luis and Ruth
Fernandez-Herlihy
Carla Gehring
Charles and Whitney
Martin
Ann-Beatrice Vopelak
Mary B. Griffin
Norman A. Sieman and
Sara Brodsky-Sieman
James and Julie Wood
Betsy Shure Gross
Rose Simon
David Kaplan
Karen and Jon Slote
Bruce Lund
Susanne F. Spatz
Lilianne Glast
Norman S. White
GenOn Kendall, LLC
Corporate Gifts ($1,000-$4,999)
Amgen
CDM Smith
Charlesbank Estates,
Inc.
Clean Harbors
Environmental Services
Coca Cola Refreshments
EMC Corporation
Charlesbank Garden
Apartments
Houghton Chemical
Corporation
In Memory of Herbert J. Goldings and Carmen Reynolds
Chestnut Hill Realty
Kohls Stoughton
Eiblis N. Goldings
Corporate Gifts ($500-$999)
In Memory of Kate C. Moore
Kohls Milford
Katherine C. and David E. Moore Family Foundation
Corporate Gifts ($100-$499)
In Memory of Ted Todd
A. Russo and Sons
Azucena Ferraro
Kelly Stewart
L.L. Bean
Tetra Tech EC, Inc.
New England Biolabs
The Cadmus Group, Inc.
NSTAR
Weston Solutions, Inc.
Shaw’s Supermarkets
Woodard and Curran
Starbucks Community
Service Program
Entergy
The Ted Trust
Boston Marriott Newton Cambridge Trust
Company
ANP Bellingham Energy Boston Sand and Gravel
Co. LLC
Company
Charles River Bank
In Memory of Nathaniel Whittier
Big Al’s Famous Fun
Foods
The Danube Group
White Corporation
National Grid Matching
Gift Program
PG&E Corporation
Foundation
Corporate Matching Gifts
S. Withington
Amica Companies
Foundation
In Honor of Jonathan Katz
Susan Brill
Harvey Felton
Cathy and Ken Kaplan
Moira Cunningham
and Lew Pepper
Barry and Liz Horwitz
Robin Sue Landsburg
Richard P. and Claire W.
Morse Foundation
CBS Radio Mix 104.1
KIND Healthy Snacks
ESRI
Knucklebones
Garbo Grabber
L.L. Bean
Glacéau
Massachusetts Water
Resources Authority
Newton Dept. of
Public Works
Autodesk
Houghton Mifflin
ING U.S.
Verizon Foundation
Gifts and Grants from Organizations, Schools and Universities
Angleside Community
Civic Association, Inc.
In-Kind Contributions
Hyatt Regency
Cambridge
Cambridge BioMedical,
Inc.
International Power GDF
Suez
Odwalla, LeadDog
Marketing Group, Inc.
Starbucks, Lower
Newton Falls
Panera Bread, Needham Swartz True Value
Patagonia Boston
Trader Joe’s Cambridge
Star Market
Supermarkets
Whole Foods Market
Charlesgate Yacht Club, Massachusetts Institute Norfolk Trout Club, Inc.
Inc.
of Technology
River Network
Brookline Adult and
Garden Club of Back Bay Massachusetts Institute
TERC
Community Education
of Technology Sloan
Harvard University,
School of Management Trustees of Boston
Beacon Hill Garden Club Murr Center
Mystic River Watershed University
Cambridge Boat Club
Head-of-the-Charles
Association
Union Boat Club
Regatta
Charles River
Newton Yacht Club, Inc. United Way of TriRecreation, Inc.
Massachusetts Service Noble and Greenough
County, Inc.
Alliance
Charles River Valley
School
Watertown Yacht Club,
Garden Club
Inc.
Contributions and Grants from Government Agencies
Boston Water and
Sewer Commission
Boston Parks and
Recreation
PAGE 26
Massachusetts
Convention Center
Authority
Massachusetts
Department of
Environmental
Protection
CHARLES RIVER WATERSHED ASSOCIATION
Massachusetts
Environmental Trust
US Environmental
Protection Agency
2012 ANNUAL REPORT
PAGE 27
Charles River Watershed Association
190 Park Road
Weston, MA 02493
www.charlesriver.org