Merrimack River Watershed Council

The Merrimack River, at 117 miles in length, drains a watershed of 5,000 square miles that sustains a population of over 2.5 million, while providing drinking water to over 600,000 people. Home to more than 200 NH and MA communities, the Merrimack watershed provides major recreational opportunities, diverse fish and wildlife habitat, and stunning scenic beauty. Who we are: MRWC was founded over four decades ago when the Merrimack was one of the ten most polluted rivers in the country. Today, the waters are swimmable and fishable many days of the year. But rapid housing development, unneeded dams, sewage overflows, polluted stormwater runoff, and toxins remain a threat to the long-term future of this major water source and natural resource. What We Do: We work with legislators, public officials, and other non-profits to address threats to the Merrimack and its watershed while educating the public about issues affecting the health of the river. We engage our river communities in protecting the Merrimack watershed through special events, public forums, and social media.Promote public access to, and enjoyment of, the Merrimack and its tributaries and nearby green spaces.