The Upper Etowah River Alliance
We inform, educate and empower communities to protect the Upper Etowah River and its watershed in North Georgia, so that our waters, lands and people thrive together.
Our Mission
The Upper Etowah River Alliance provides regional leadership, education and community resources through water quality testing, trash cleanups and the conservation of our streams and rivers. We work to safeguard the natural beauty, economic vitality and recreational opportunities of the Upper Etowah Basin for present and future generations. Our mission is made possible by a dedicated coalition of residents, local governments, educators and community partners.
About Us
The Upper Etowah River Alliance brings together residents, local organizations and government partners to protect the Upper Etowah River and its watershed across Cherokee, Dawson, Forsyth, Lumpkin and Pickens counties. Our work includes:
- Education
- Water quality monitoring
- Stream and river cleanups
- Community outreach and advocacy
- Partnerships and civic leadership
- Research and watershed assessment
Our Core Values
Community Partnership
We believe long-term environmental health begins at the local level. We serve as a trusted regional resource, uniting residents, landowners, local governments, and organizations in lasting partnerships that protect our shared watershed.
Education & Discovery
We believe people protect what they understand and love. Through classroom programs, guided outdoor experiences, and public outreach, we help people of all ages explore the Upper Etowah and learn how their choices shape its future.
Proactive Conservation
We are committed to safeguarding the natural beauty, aquatic biodiversity, and clean water of the Upper Etowah Basin through active stream monitoring, cleanups, and responsible land management.
Legacy for Future Generations
We balance environmental protection with economic and recreational vitality, ensuring our rivers, streams, and lands thrive for the benefit of present and future generations.
UERA’s work and its history are incredibly valuable. We have an incredible amount of knowledge within its membership and throughout our community. There’s a lot of good work ahead for the Etowah River, and we’ll do it together. I’m excited about what we can accomplish for the river.
Our History
The Upper Etowah River Alliance began in 1998, when residents, local governments and water providers in Cherokee, Dawson, Forsyth, Lumpkin and Pickens counties came together to protect the river they share. Early volunteers met at the historic courthouse in Canton, launched a newsletter, The Etowah News Stream, and started teaching landowners and builders how to keep soil and pollution out of our streams.
Over the years, UERA has trained builders in erosion control, planted rain gardens, led paddle trips and organized hundreds of volunteers for Rivers Alive cleanups. Today our volunteers test water quality with Georgia Adopt-A-Stream, remove trash from our creeks and bring students to the river.
Corporate Partnerships
The Upper Etowah River supplies drinking water, supports local recreation and tourism, and is home to rare fish found nowhere else on Earth. Our partners help keep it that way.
How to Help the Etowah
Become a Member
Join our community of members who are committed to protecting the Etowah River.
Volunteer
Join us on the water and along the shore through hands-on volunteer opportunities that directly protect and restore our local watershed.
Report a Problem
If you see something, say something. Let us know if you see a possible water quality problem.
Stay Informed
Sign up to our newsletter and receive our emails, event information, and updates.