Our Mission
Hackensack Riverkeeper defends the Public Trust resources of the Hackensack River Watershed through a fourfold strategy of environmental action, advocacy, education and litigation. The organization employs that strategy on behalf of the people and wildlife that depend on the river and its watershed for life. Hackensack Riverkeeper carries carry out its mission through a combination of formal and nonformal environmental education programs designed to raise awareness of the people of the Hackensack River Watershed. In everything we do, we work to protect, preserve and restore the various fish and wildlife habitats that exist within the watershed. Hackensack Riverkeeper is the citizen steward for the watershed and as such, promotes responsible, sustainable development. We work with local, county and regional planners to ensure that land-use planning decisions reflect up-to-date science and adhere to all applicable environmental laws and regulations. Hackensack Riverkeeper works to remediate centuries of pollution and associated environmental damage caused by the human community. To this end, we will always seek the best possible solutions to the many problems caused by the unfettered growth and sprawl development that have taken place within the watershed. Hackensack Riverkeeper is a resource to assist local, state and federal agencies identify sources of pollution; and work with those agencies to ensure compliance with and enforcement of environmental laws and regulations. When government agencies demonstrate inability or unwillingness to enforce the laws and regulations to protect our natural resources, we assume the role of citizen prosecutor and use the power of the courts to secure justice for the people and the ecosystems of the Hackensack River Watershed.
Our History
The Hackensack River is a true comeback story. As rivers go, the Hackensack is certainly one of the world’s smallest (only 50 miles long) and one of its most urban (nearly 20 million people live within a short drive or train ride from its banks), but it is a river steeped in history. Read more.
Our Team
Who is Hackensack Riverkeeper? Read about the staff who make it all happen.
Our Partners
Our corporate sponsors donate funds, auction items or food for events such as cleanups. Read more.
Board of Trustees
Our trustees bring a wealth of experience and passion to our cause. Read more.
Contact Us
Learn More
Find links to resources, other waterkeeper organizaions, canoe/water recreation groups, and other environmental organizations. Read more.