In June 2023, Upstream Watch launched the Penobscot Bay Waterkeeper program for the protection of Penobscot Bay and its watersheds. Key priorities include addressing industrial pollution, stormwater runoff, and climate change impacts while ensuring regulatory enforcement. The program focuses on safeguarding marine ecosystems, improving water quality, and empowering communities through education and advocacy.

Jillian Howell is the new Penobscot Bay Waterkeeper and Executive Director of Upstream Watch, joining in July 2023. With over a decade of experience in environmental advocacy, Jill previously served as the Pamlico-Tar Riverkeeper and Advocacy Program Manager at Sound Rivers in North Carolina. A Boston native, she holds a B.A. in Environmental and Global Studies from Colby College and a Master of Environmental Management from Yale.

In October, the Gender Equity and Development Association launched the Sénégal River Waterkeeper. The Sénégal River faces numerous threats, including climate change, coastal erosion, and pollution. Displacement of communities, rapid urbanization, and untreated wastewater from households, hospitals, and Chinese fish factories all contribute to water contamination, the spread of diseases, and harm to fish populations.

Moussa Niang is the new Sénégal River Waterkeeper. A business leader, Moussa manages an ecological café, Farmers Coffee Shop, and is deeply involved in mobilizing youth for programs to clean the banks of the Sénégal River. His initial focus will be addressing the exploitation of gas along the coasts near Saint-Louis, which has serious consequences for the health and safety of the river.

The Auji and Kibos Rivers in Kisumu County, Kenya, are vital for local communities but face threats from pollution, deforestation, and climate change. Flamingo Chap Chap Auji-Kibos River Waterkeeper is addressing these issues through conservation, stricter regulations, sustainable land use, and community empowerment to ensure these rivers remain clean and healthy for future generations.

Wilkister Kemuma Kaoka's passion for water conservation and environmental protection stems from her upbringing in a region affected by pollution and environmental degradation. Motivated by the damage to her community’s health and ecosystem, she dedicated herself to educating and empowering others on the importance of protecting these rivers. Through community outreach and public awareness campaigns, Wilkister has inspired accountability and stewardship. Her commitment to eliminating pollution led her to become the Flamingo Chap Chap Auji-Kibos River Waterkeeper, where she continues to advocate for clean water and a healthier environment.

The Illinois River, a vital 273-mile tributary of the Mississippi, faces numerous threats from pollution, failing infrastructure, and enforcement gaps.  Peoria Riverkeeper is dedicated to using robust science, legal competency, and social influence to protect the Illinois river watershed.

Michael Smallberger, a native of Peoria, IL, and a Marine Corps veteran, founded Peoria Riverkeeper in 2024 to protect and clean up the Illinois River and its connecting bodies of water. Michael is the father of twin boys and enjoys fishing, hiking, and spending time on the water. He also serves on Peoria’s Joint Commission for Racial Justice and Equity in the climate and environment workgroup, where he works with the city to improve environmental conditions in low-income neighborhoods and ensures that all communities have a voice in addressing pollution.

The Great Salt Lake is a vital 1,700-square-mile wetland ecosystem. The Utah Rivers Council is thrilled to join the Waterkeeper community. As Great Salt Lake Waterkeeper, they will drive legislative and judicial action to restore sustainable water levels, protect critical habitats for millions of migratory birds, and engage Americans in safeguarding this priceless aquatic treasure.

Amy Wicks, a member of the Miniconjou Lakota and Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, brings 30 years of nonprofit experience and three terms on the Ogden City Council to the movement. A passionate advocate for water conservation, sustainability, and tribal issues, she now serves as Northern Utah Programs Manager and Great Salt Lake Waterkeeper for the Utah Rivers Council.