We . Protect

We . Serve

We . Celebrate

We . Are

A 501 (c) (3) non-profit. Tax ID 22-3878950

WE  PROTECT

Our mission is to protect, conserve and replenish Maryland's longest and deepest intrastate waterway.

Through strategic advocacy, restoration and education our goal is long term sustainability for the ecosystem of the entire Patuxent River basin and the people who rely on its future.

Our Nottingham Visitors Center offers Kayak, Canoe & Equipment Rentals and coordinates community events.

While we are a grass roots community based non-profit, we are proud to be members of the Waterkeeper Alliance that advocates for the health and well being global waterways.  

Patuxent River Keeper is funded through grants and public donations. We accept tax deductible donations in any amount. 

 

WE  SERVE

We envision serving as the hub of a river oriented community. We offer  many programs and opportunities to get involved in stewardship of the Patuxent, from volunteering to political action, to exploring & enjoying time the river. 

Our recent program, the Patuxent Summer Mentoring Camp has been a great success to bring in young voices.  Our ongoing Patuxent Roughnecks and Annual Cleanup efforts remain a vital part of keeping the Patuxent clean for our community.  Learn more about our programs and volunteer opportunities!

VISIT THE PATUXENT RIVERKEEPER STORE

The Patuxent Riverkeeper shop offers gear, rentals, and unique gifts for lovers of the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay.

Proceeds support Patuxent Riverkeeper's mission.

 

WE  CELEBRATE

We often host celebrations and special programs at our Nottingham Center.  Check this space to see what is coming up next!

WE  ARE 

The Patuxent Riverkeeper

Established in 2004 by Fred Tutman, the grass roots movement of the Patuxent Riverkeeper spans seven counties in Maryland to advocate for and restore the Patuxent River.

Today the Patuxent is a study in contrasts with regions rich in history, wildlife and unforgettable scenic vistas to other areas with poisoned beaches, dead zones and hopelessly blocked and snagged upper tributaries. 

Once one of the most productive sources of shellfish in the world, the Patuxent has been deeply and negatively affected by negligent land use.   

And yet scientists have pointed to the incredible resilience of the ecosystem, its ability to heal itself if we humans can be compelled to mend our behavior toward the river and embrace responsible stewardship.

 

Patuxent Riverkeeper and Other Groups File Notice Letter to Sue NRG Energy for Massive Pollution

By NLewis | January 28, 2013

For Immediate Release: Monday, January 28, 2013 Documents Show NRG has at Least 2353 Permit Violations for Nutrient Pollution Washington D.C. – Today Food & Water Watch, Patuxent Riverkeeper and Potomac Riverkeeper – represented by Public Justice and Columbia University School of Law Environmental Law Clinic – announced the filing of a Clean Water Act…

Waterkeepers Coalition Calls on Maryland to Strengthen Regs on Use of Manure

By NLewis | May 18, 2012

Press Release: Chesapeake Waterkeepers Coalition Calls on Maryland to Strengthen Regulations on Agricultural Use of Manure Wednesday, May 16, 2012 – 12:00am Proposed rules would lead to excessive farm-related pollution and hurt state’s efforts to clean up the Chesapeake and other waterways SHADY SIDE, MD – WATERKEEPERS Chesapeake, a coalition of 18 waterway-protection groups, is…

Envisioning Clean Water and Healthy Communities: A Conversation with Patuxent Riverkeeper Fred Tutman

By NLewis | March 22, 2012

Riverkeeper Fred Tutman speaks for the water. Often, his canoe is his office as he patrols Maryland’s Patuxent River. Tutman has served as the Patuxent Riverkeeper since leaving law school in 2004. A tireless advocate for the river, he grew up along its banks as did seven generations of his family before him. Since then,…

Patuxent Riverkeeper Wins Major Legal Victory

By NLewis | October 2, 2011

Landmark Decision Sets Statewide Precedent for Maryland Citizen Groups OCTOBER 2, 2011 (UPPER MARLBORO, MD) — In a recent 5-2 decision, Maryland’s highest court upheld judicial standing for a member of a local environmental group contesting a wetlands permit awarded to developers of a shopping mall. The case – "Patuxent Riverkeeper v. Maryland Department of…

WATERKEEPERS CONVENE AT CITY DOCK, DEMAND ACTION FROM MARYLAND LEGISLATURES

By NLewis | May 18, 2011

May 19th Rally and Press Conference in Annapolis. Join us at the City Dock in Annapolis at 1pm! Contingent rain location is 58 State Circle in the Atrium. A flotilla of small craft operated by 18 affiliated Chesapeake Waterkeeper groups as they demand that Maryland Legislators deliver leadership and action on the cleanup of the…

My First Patuxent Bald Eagle Sighting

By NLewis | February 1, 2011

It Happened on the Banks of the Patuxent River: My First Bald Eagle Sighting By Tom Terry It was in the late 1950’s. My brother Michael and I were fishing for eel and white and yellow perch on the bank of the Patuxent River with my Grandfather, Anthony (Tony) Poula, at our favorite fishing spot…