Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
Coosa Riverkeeper to receive national River Hero honor
Justinn Overton, Executive Director and Riverkeeper at Coosa Riverkeeper has been named a River Hero by River Network, a group whose purpose is to grow and strengthen river advocates nationwide.
“Justinn has been a transformative leader for the environment in Alabama.”
~Longtime Executive Director of the Cahaba River Society Beth Stewart and a past River Hero honoree
River Hero is one of the most prestigious honors in the U.S.
Considered one of the most prestigious national honors in the river advocacy movement, The River Hero Award recognizes and showcases the achievements of individuals and teams who have advanced the cause of clean water and rivers for all.
An advocate for the middle and lower Coosa watersheds for 11 years, Overton has championed numerous successful programs including the Fish Guide and Swim Guide initiatives. She is also a leader in the Waterkeeper in Alabama coalition.
“It is incredible to see a fellow Alabamian recognized nationally for all the inspiring and tireless work she has done for the Coosa River and beyond. Justinn and Coosa Riverkeeper have been an active partner with Alabama Rivers Alliance on everything from hydropower to legislative advocacy, so we have seen her awe-inspiring leadership in action in communities and the statehouse. We are so lucky to have her fighting to protect rivers and the health of communities here in Alabama!”
– Cindy Lowry, Executive Director, Alabama Rivers Alliance
Several Alabama honorees
Justinn joins the ranks of several leaders in Alabama’s river movement who have been named River Heroes, including Beth Finch (photographer), John Wathan (Hurricane Creekkeeper), Beth Stewart (Cahaba River Society), Catherine Flowers (advocate) and Casi Callaway (Mobile Baykeeper).
“It’s exciting that there have been many river heroes from Alabama that have gotten this kind of national recognition. It also recognizes nationally the incredible work happening in Alabama on behalf of our very special and biodiverse waterways.”
