In West Virginia, entire communities are relying on outdated water infrastructure. At the same time, pollution from industry continues to flow unchecked into our streams. But month after month, our Paddling Partners help us monitor these impacts, push for enforcement, and support communities calling for clean and safe West Virginia waters for all.

Our Paddling Partners aren’t just giving; they’re standing up for clean water every single month.

This May, seven new Paddling Partners joined our movement, bringing us to 32 dedicated individuals who power this work month after month. Their consistent support allows us to plan ahead, respond quickly, and advocate fiercely — because we know we can count on them to have our backs.

From $5 to $50, these monthly gifts help monitor water quality, defend science and good data collection, support communities who call on us when they observe something wrong with their local stream, and hold polluters accountable all across the Mountain State.

And it’s working. Because of our Paddling Partners:

• Communities are supported to learn how to protect their water at the source through everyday actions
• Decision-makers are hearing from science-backed, people-powered voices making real change at the state and federal levels
• Contamination from PFAS, outdated infrastructure, and industrial impacts are being addressed head-on

We’re not done yet. And we need more people like them. By the end of the month, we’re asking for 8 more people to step up to become a Paddling Partner. Can we count on you today?

If you’ve been considering becoming a Paddling Partner, now’s the time. Your monthly gift — no matter the size — becomes a steady current of support that keeps our work moving all year long.

Thank you for being part of this community that knows West Virginia’s waters and people are worthy of protection.

For clean water and healthy communities,

Jennie Smith
Executive Director, WV Rivers Coalition

P.S. Already a Paddling Partner? Thank you! Please just consider this an update. Your sustained commitment is the reason we’re growing. You can help even more by encouraging a friend to join you!