New American Rivers office in Milwaukee will focus on protecting clean water

Sean Foltz, former executive director of the Midwest Lakes Policy Center, will spearhead clean water efforts

September 21, 2009

Milwaukee -- American Rivers announced today that it has opened a new office in Milwaukee that will focus on protecting clean water. Sean Foltz, former executive director of the Midwest Lakes Policy Center, will spearhead the organization’s efforts in Milwaukee.  American Rivers, headquartered in Washington, DC, has offices around the country and has played a lead role in Great Lakes clean water efforts since 2004.

The Milwaukee office is just one part of the comprehensive approach American Rivers is taking in the Great Lakes region to reduce stormwater runoff and protect clean water. American Rivers is working with decision-makers to promote natural stormwater management practices like permeable pavement, rain gardens, and green roofs. These “green infrastructure” approaches help save money and energy, reduce flooding, and improve water quality.

"Clean water is the lifeblood of our communities, and nowhere is that more obvious than in the Great Lakes region," said Gary Belan, director of the Clean Water program at American Rivers. "We are delighted that Sean has joined us to take on this important new role, and we are confident that the region’s rivers and communities will benefit greatly from his expertise and leadership."

American Rivers’ new office is supported by $150,000 from the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District and a three-year, $375,000 grant awarded to American Rivers by the Joyce Foundation.  These funds, which will further develop a green infrastructure program in Milwaukee, are designed to improve the health, safety, and quality of life in Milwaukee’s communities.

“With this project, Foltz will hit the ground running to demonstrate that green solutions work better, cost less, and provide more flexibility for managing our water resources in the face of climate change,” Belan added.

 “Old 19th and 20th century approaches to water management simply aren’t fit for the challenges of the 21st century,” said Foltz.  “Today, we know that nature works best to enhance community safety and security and also saves money.  In Milwaukee, we will be promoting innovative solutions to improve the health of community waterways, and demonstrating sustainable water supply solutions for rivers and communities.”

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American Rivers is the leading conservation organization fighting for healthy rivers so communities can thrive. American Rivers protects and restores America's rivers for the benefit of people, wildlife and nature. Founded in 1973, American Rivers has more than 65,000 members and supporters, with offices in Washington, DC and nationwide.