Thanks, Dave, For Watching Over Our River

David Merryman

Naturally Wonderful – April 19, 2012

Note from Rich Haag - Today's blog about David Merryman, who recently stepped down as Catawba Riverkeeper, is by Christopher Lux, a freelance writer for Catawba RiverViews and a student at Belmont Abbey College.

The CatawbaRiverkeeper Foundation (CRF) is a non-profit environmental organization that advocates for the protection, enhancement, and enjoyment of the Catawba River. Riverkeeper David Merryman stepped down two weeks ago to take a new job in southern Maryland.

Catawba RiverViews recently talked with Merryman about his work as the Catawba Riverkeeper, his future plans and the future of the CatawbaRiverkeeper Foundation.

RiverViews - What brought you to the Catawba River?

David - I was introduced to the Catawba River as a biology student at Gardner-Webb University. I really enjoyed its beauty, and its ability to provide so much to a rapidly growing community. At that time, I realized that our local water supplies were extremely important in order to maintain a high quality of living. Therefore, working to maintain the local water way is the best way to promote and protect your community.

RiverViews - Where are you headed from here?

David - My wife and I are headed to southern Maryland on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. I will continue working as an Environmental Scientist.

RiverViews - What do you rank as your biggest accomplishments as Riverkeeper?

David - Holding Carolina Water Service/Tega Cay Water Service on Lake Wylie accountable for nearly 2 years of illegally discharging partially treated and untreated wastewater into the lake.

RiverViews - What big issues does the next Riverkeeper face?

David - The pressures of rapid growth and development continue to plague the Catawba River basin. This river has provided so much, but it can only be stretched so thin before irreversible damage is done. The next Riverkeeper will also have to continue fighting the efforts by legislators in North and South Carolina to roll back environmental protections. In fact, the next Riverkeeper will have to deal with legislators in both states that think it is okay to completely eliminate the individual liberties of citizens to protect the environment. 

RiverViews - What advice do you have for CRF?

David - Just keep swimming! This work is a constant uphill battle with each victory being only temporary, so remain vigilant and as proactive as possible.

RiverViews - What do you love most about CRF?

David - This organization has weathered storms, droughts and economic downturns and continues to remain steadfast in its mission of protecting the quality and quantity of water in the entire Catawba River basin. I think that is down-right remarkable!

RiverViews - Any parting words?

David - My experiences with CRF, its board, its members and its volunteers have been nothing less than absolute treasures to me. I will always hold a special place in my heart for the Catawba River and CRF. I’m so proud of the work CRF accomplishes year-in and year-out; and I know this would be impossible without the amazing host of CRF volunteers. Even though they face many barriers and find some grief along the way, the Catawba River thanks them for their efforts. And, I thank them very much!