URBANCONSERVATION &EQUITABLEACCESS TONATUREFORALL.
2025 Priorities
Climate
Resilience Land Conservation Accessibility & Engagement
The Ellerbe Creek Watershed Association (ECWA) manages nearly 500 acres of land for conservation, water quality and public enjoyment.
Our mission is fueled by a deep commitment to environmental justice, scientific integrity, and community empowerment, as we believe that a thriving watershed is intrinsically connected to the well-being of the community.
As federal and state wetland protections shrink due to recent US Supreme Court cases, action in land protection is becoming more critical. ECWA’s nature preserves protect existing wetlands and we continue to advocate for wetland protection & restoration.
somuchIsatstake PROTECT
waterIslife
Conserved lands save water and money. ECWA preserves protect freshwater habitat & provide pollution reduction for the drinking water source for half a million North Carolinians.
Treating water from an unprotected watershed can cost 10 times more than from a conserved watershed.
North America has already lost about 30% of its biodiversity due to many factors including rapid development of natural lands and the effects of climate change. Conserved lands protect plants, animals, and pollinators and keep critical habitat intact for the future health of our planet.
biodiversityatrisk RESTORE
Nearly 75% of communities of color in the US lack access to safe & maintained outdoor spaces. Enjoying the outdoors in Durham should be local, free, safe, and accessible to every person. In 2025, ECWA is upgrading maps, trails, programming, and kiosks to better serve our whole watershed community.
Healthycommunities
In addition to providing clean air and water, tree canopy and healthy soils in ECWA preserves reduce the temperature in Durham. Time spent in parks, trails, gardens, and green spaceeven just 2 hours/ week- is linked to improvements in physical and mental wellbeing and reduced healthcare costs.
ENGAGE
Climate change affects us all. As hotter temperatures and intense storms become more prevalent, protected wetlands provide storm protection and heat remediation, reducing the impact of the changing climate and protecting communities from flooding.
climateresilience
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Thank you for supporting our work for clean water, healthy communities, and accessible green space in Durham.
