For more than 10 years, the Choose Clean Water Coalition has convened nonprofits, funders, elected officials, state and federal agencies, and other stakeholders around our common goal—clean water. And while we have found success in our joint efforts, much work remains and some of our toughest challenges still lie ahead.

Climate change is impacting not only our water quality, but the lives of the millions of people who live in the Chesapeake watershed. We recognize that our community has failed to adequately address the impact that pollution has on under-resourced communities and/or People of Color. And we are faced with the reality that we are unlikely to meet our 2025 Chesapeake clean up goals.

While this may seem daunting, we already have what we need to address these challenges—our collective power. When harnessed, the more than 290 member organizations of the Choose Clean Water Coalition and our many partners can create a more inclusive and powerful network of advocates championing sound and equitable clean water policies.

The works starts with us. To be both authentic and effective, we need to better reflect the communities that we serve, continue to amplify the voices of clean water champions, and advocate for strong clean water policies and programs. This is our plan for how we will do that, working together, to ensure clean water for everyone.

Our Focus

Grow and mobilize a more inclusive movement of clean water champions

The Coalition convenes and connects clean water advocates in New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Our more than 290 member organizations strive to authentically reflect and amplify the voices of the diverse communities they represent through our leadership, programs, and shared commitment to build a more inclusive network of champions.

Expand the capacity of Coalition members to be strong advocates for clean water and resilient communities

The heart of our Coalition is our membership. Each member organization is unique and plays a critical role in supporting local communities to protect their rights to clean water. The Coalition provides relevant communications, tools, training, and peer learning to build the capacity of each organization and the network as a whole.

Advance equitable policies and ensure accountability through 2025 and beyond

As we collectively aim to accelerate progress toward our 2025 water quality (TMDL) goals, our Coalition is growing the political and public will to ensure clean water is a consistent priority with broad, bipartisan support well beyond 2025. We advocate for policy that restores and protects our water and supports our most vulnerable communities.