Getting Stronger in 2026

Dear Black Warrior Riverkeeper supporters,

On our quest for cleaner water throughout the Black Warrior River basin, we are about to get even stronger. Starting on January 1, 2026, Katie Holmes will have a new role as Program Coordinator. Katie has been an outstanding member of our staff as Outreach Coordinator since October of 2023. She has forged excellent partnerships while leading our Volunteer Litter Cleanups program, which has removed over 125,000 pounds of trash! In 2026, Katie will spend more time addressing other threats to clean water, assisting our water quality monitoring, responding to people who report pollution, and leading our new ventures in GIS mapping with partners from Waterkeepers Alabama.

Katie Holmes. Photo by Nelson Brooke, Black Warrior Riverkeeper.

Does Katie’s shift toward advocacy mean that we are reducing our efforts on litter cleanups and other forms of volunteer engagement? Quite the contrary! On the first day of 2026, Mary Allen Murray – who has been serving as a part-time independent contractor since November of 2023 – will become a full-time member of our staff. As Engagement Coordinator, Mary Allen will lead our Volunteer Cleanups Program while also representing us at far more events and conferences across the watershed. Katie will still help Mary Allen with cleanups on occasion, while continuing to publish our monthly newsletters.

Mary Allen Murray. Photo by Nelson Brooke, Black Warrior Riverkeeper.

Katie and Mary Allen’s expanded roles are a testament to their natural talent, tireless effort, and passion for helping others. While they have both worked their way up from part-time positions, their promotions would not have been possible without your donations. As we conclude a remarkably successful 2025, I am grateful to everyone who propels us to the point where we can look forward to an even better 2026.

Merry Christmas,

Charles Scribner
Executive Director
Black Warrior Riverkeeper
[email protected]
205-458-0095