The Delaware Nature Society, based in Hockessin, has received a grant from the William Penn Foundation to continue its Clean Water Campaign. This grant will be used to integrate a communications and marketing program that highlights the public’s desire for clean water funding, and engage elected officials in efforts to secure dedicated clean water funding.

In 2015, the Delaware Nature Society, through a previous William Penn Foundation grant, launched the “Clean Water: Delaware’s Clear Choice” campaign, which provided the foundation for these efforts.

 Contaminated water doesn’t just affect fish and wildlife; it impacts the food we eat, the streams and waterways near our homes, and the trips we take to the beach with our families. Currently, 86 percent of Delaware’s rivers and streams are not recommended for swimming due to high levels of bacteria. More than 100 miles of Delaware’s water have fish-consumption advisories, and millions of dollars in wastewater infrastructure will be needed in Delaware over the next 20 years. 

Through presentations, outreach materials, field trips and educational programs, the campaign will offer opportunities for residents and candidates to learn more about their local waterways and water quality issues. Clean Water Alliance members and campaign supporters include: Delaware Center for Inland Bays, Partnership for the Delaware Estuary, Delmarva Ornithological Society, Tidewater Utilities, Clean Air Council, Delaware Interfaith Power and Light, National Wildlife Federation, Choose Clean Water Coalition, and Coalition for The Delaware River Watershed.

For more information about the Clean Water Campaign, visit www.CleanWaterDelaware.org.