Rising temperatures and extreme heat and precipitation are having profound effects on water quality and quantity, sea levels, flood risks, and ecosystems — affecting millions of people in our region.

Rising temperatures, extremes of precipitation, and sea-level rise are dramatically increasing flooding risks, water quality degradation, and ecosystem changes throughout the region. The cascading effects of climate change are affecting the quality of water we drink, the safety of our waters for recreation, and the integrity of aquatic ecosystems and critical infrastructure. Extreme storms put millions at risk from flooding, and this threat is exacerbated by sea level rise and storm surges for coastal areas, including New York City and communities along the tidal Hudson River. Higher temperatures are also causing impacts on fish and wildlife, adding stress to the ecosystem’s already fragile from depleted habitat.

To strengthen climate resilience throughout the watershed, Riverkeeper advocates for effective climate adaptation measures that address flooding and water quality risks, and supports a transition to renewable energy that not only mitigates climate impacts, but also protects the river and the life within it.

We have a multi-faceted approach to adapting to our changing ecosystems which includes removing dams to unlock floodwater capacity and head off catastrophic dam failures due to increased rain; implementing and supporting nature-based projects such as green infrastructure to capture rainwater where it falls and shoreline restoration to reduce coastal flooding and provide needed habitat; fighting to limit the further destruction of our remaining wetlands, floodplains and open green spaces; leveraging our scientific experts and partners to track the impact of climate change and identify the areas most at risk; and lobbying for increased funding for adaptation and mitigation projects on the local, state and federal level.

We successfully collaborate with communities, regulators, and legislators to create and advance solutions that protect the environment, save lives, and improve quality of life — now and for centuries to come.