Protecting the Delaware River: Women in Conservation

Jaclyn Rhoads is being honored at PennFuture’s 2018 Celebrating Women in Conservation Awards for her dedication to protecting the Delaware River watershed. She serves as assistant executive director of the Pinelands Preservation Alliance and holds leadership roles with the Friends of the Heinz Refuge and the Darby Creek Valley Association.

Rhoads describes wearing many hats on both sides of the Delaware. In New Jersey she advocates for the protection of the Pinelands National Reserve, ensuring that land use and development respect the unique ecology of the Pine Barrens. In Pennsylvania, where she lives, she leads community organizations dedicated to conserving the Heinz National Wildlife Refuge and the Darby Creek watershed.

She emphasizes the importance of citizen involvement and collaboration across state lines to safeguard the river’s water and habitats. By engaging local communities, promoting science-based policies and advocating for strong land-use planning, Rhoads aims to keep the Delaware River healthy for future generations and encourages others to join these efforts.