The Catawba River is more than just a geographical boundary between Mecklenburg and Gaston counties. It collects groundwater and feeds reservoirs like Lake Norman, Lake Wylie and Mountain Island Lake to provide the Charlotte area with drinking water and electricity. However, the river is at constant risk of contamination and can’t speak up for itself.
That’s where the Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation steps in. The nonprofit organization works to protect, preserve and advocate for the Catawba-Wateree River Basin so that all waters are drinkable, swimmable and fishable. The foundation recently moved into its new headquarters in McAdenville from its former uptown Charlotte location to be closer to the river and to expand its protection efforts.
The Ledger sat down with Catawba Riverkeeper Brandon Jones in the foundation’s new headquarters to talk about what being the riverkeeper means and why protecting the river basin is important. Jones also shares details about the new headquarters building, which includes a front-of-the-house taproom with locally crafted beer made with water from the Catawba River.
The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks.
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Protecting Charlotte's water supply, with Catawba Riverkeeper Brandon Jones