Canada’s new Moose Riverkeeper announced
In early June, the Waterkeeper Alliance Board of Directors approved the formation Canada’s newest Riverkeeper. William Tozer becomes the Moose Riverkeeper, responsible for the 547-kilometer waterway near James Bay, ON.
Giller Book Prize-winning writer and Lake Ontario Waterkeeper member Joseph Boyden will become Moose Riverkeeper’s President. Joseph’s connection to the Moose River traces back over twenty years, and is woven into his latest work, Through Black Spruce. Moose Riverkeeper is also support by Lake Ontario Waterkeeper Mark Mattson, and Trustee for Lake Ontario Gord Downie. Tozer’s decision will make this master hunter, trapper, and guide the full-time Waterkeeper for this ancient waterbody.
What is a “Waterkeeper”? Through over 180 Waterkeeper organizations around the world, Waterkeepers are united by a commitment to four core values:
- A personal commitment to the waterbody. Waterkeepers must dedicate themselves full time to the responsibility and accountability of protecting their watershed.
- A commitment to the Waterkeeper movement. Waterkeepers must act with integrity and an active member of Waterkeeper Alliance
- A commitment to an institution. An individual Waterkeeper must build an institution, dedicated to public interest and sustainable over many generations, while maintaining proper organizational structure and and practices (fundraising, accounting, strategic planning, etc.)
- A commitment to the public. Waterkeeper’s strength lies with its members. Waterkeepers must work to be visible, available and active in their communities, working with the public to respond to concerns in their watershed.
Listen to Living at the Barricades.
This week’s Living at the Barricades continues the discussion of what it means to be a Waterkeeper. We also welcome Joseph Boyden and Joanna Bull to the show to talk about this momentous occasion for the Moose River.
Music on this week's show:
Neil Young - Heart of Gold
The Ramones - Poison Heart
Deee-Lite - Groove is in the Heart
