Values 

OUR MISSION is to create lasting protections for local waterways using community science, research, education, and advocacy. Our ambassador is the North American River Otter—an indicator of healthy waters. We are committed to making our work accessible, inclusive, and equitable, recognizing that environmental justice and the participation of every voice are essential for meaningful and lasting change.

OUR VISION is a world where all communities are inspired by and connected to preserving local natural waterways for generations to come. Lasting environmental change starts with local actions and local actions start with people. We engage people in actively supporting their waterways in their own spaces. Join us and be part of the change!

OUR VALUES 

Inspired by the curiosity, boldness, and resilience of the North American river otter, River Otter Ecology Project is rooted in connection—to place, community, and the living world around us. We recognize that the natural world thrives through interdependence, and so do we. We believe we are stronger when we navigate the currents together.

OUR ACTIONS
We embrace inclusion and diversity on our Board of Directors, within our volunteer team, and among the people we serve through our research, outreach, and education projects.

• Our Board of Directors reflects a diverse range of backgrounds, ethnicities, ages, skill sets, and geographic regions across the country.
• As we solicit new volunteers, we are working hard to ensure that all are welcome and make additional efforts to include people who reflect our national diversity.
• Our classroom education work specifically strives for inclusion through our work with Tomales High School.
• We are proud members of the California Environmental Quality Act coalition (CEQAWorks), supporting actions to prevent erosion of environmental protections, which affect disenfranchised groups more than others.