For Immediate Release
March 8, 2017 – The Connecticut River Watershed Council (CRC) announced today that long-time Upper Valley River Steward David Deen will be retiring on March 15. Deen has served as a CRC River Steward for 19 years, working to protect and restore the Connecticut River and its tributaries in Vermont and New Hampshire.
Deen describes his River Steward work as “resisting the bad things that could happen to the Connecticut River and celebrating the good things about the river.” He led the organization’s efforts to fight Vermont Yankee’s thermal pollution, and most recently has been CRC’s point person on the relicensing of three hydroelectric dams in Wilder, Bellows Falls & Vernon.
“David has been a linchpin for our organization and CRC wouldn’t be what it is today without his steadfast dedication and many hours of work on behalf of the river, its fish, and the communities in the Upper Valley,” said CRC Executive Director, Andrew Fisk. “David understands the value of working together for a common cause and how to bring people together to enact change so that everybody can enjoy this great river.”
Deen, who has spent more than 25 years as a Vermont legislator, helped enact Vermont’s Clean Water Act last year as chair of the House Natural Resources, Fish, and Wildlife Committee. He will continue in his legislative role and vows to continue working toward clean water for all Vermonters. Deen, who holds a M.S. from Antioch University New England Graduate School, can be found fishing in the Connecticut River and its tributaries during his days off.
Although retiring as a CRC staff person, Deen will continue to assist CRC as an Honorary Trustee. As such, he will help the organization celebrate its 65th anniversary this year, which includes relaunching the organization with a new name and logo and sharing the vision for our rivers for the next 65 years. CRC is planning several retirement parties for Deen throughout the watershed in the months ahead. Additional details will be available at ctriver.org/news-events/
CRC has one other River Steward helping cover New Hampshire and Vermont, but Deen’s position will be filled. The job will focus on policy and advocacy issues, including dam relicensing, water quality, and environmental regulations. Candidates should contact Ron Rhodes at rrhodes@ctriver.org or 802-457-6114 for additional information.
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Ron Rhodes, River Steward
(802) 457-6114
Connecticut River Watershed Council
