Mystic River Watershed Association

The Mystic River Watershed Association (MyRWA) was founded in 1972 to protect and restore natural resources in the 22-community watershed. MyRWA accomplishes this work through the efforts of professional staff and thousands of volunteers working together on a project-by-project basis.

To protect and restore the Mystic River, its tributaries and watershed lands for the benefit of present and future generations and to celebrate the value, importance and great beauty of these natural resources.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

RIVER AND PARK CLEANUPS

Whether you’re cleaning up trash, removing water chestnut from a canoe, or pulling the invasive Bittersweet vine from parks, our one-time events help us make the watershed more beautiful and resilient. Check out our one-time events on our calendar.

RIVER HERRING MONITORING

Each spring over 100 volunteers help us count herring in-person at the Mystic Lakes Dam and at Horn Pond. Take 10 minutes a week to help us monitor these important species. You can also help us count online with our underwater webcam!

WATER QUALITY MONITORING

Trained citizen scientists help collect water quality samples each month. We’re not currently recruiting volunteers for this program, but we encourage you to check back for openings in the future.

OUTREACH AND EDUCATION

Volunteers help educate the public about MyRWA and Mystic news, recreation opportunities and the Mystic River ecosystem. Help out at community events and youth education programs, or support the Herring Run and Paddle!

POLICY COMMITTEE

If you’re interested in reducing plastic in the environment, advocating for climate resiliency efforts, saving conservation space and more, the policy committee may be for you. Members draft letters to endorse or oppose legislation or in response to environmental permits and development proposals, testify at public hearings, etc.