WRWA is sponsoring a photo contest and is seeking photographers who love the river and the natural world. All entries will be judged and on display at WRWA's River Day Festival, Sat. June 22, at the Head of Westport Landing. Prizes will be awarded for the following categories: Adult, and Junior (grades 1-12).

All entries must be submitted in both hardcopy and digital format to WRWA.  Email JPG format images to water@wrwa.com by June 1. Each entry must also be printed and matted as an 8"x10" and mailed or dropped off at the WRWA office with Attn: Photo Contest to 1151 Main Rd., PO Box 3427 Westport 02790 on or before June.

Each photo entry must be ready for display entry and labeled on the back with the photo's title, name of the contestant, address, phone number and entry class. In addition a 3×5 card must accompany each entry with the title, name of photographer, and entry category.

While reasonable care will be taken, WRWA will not be responsible for lost, stolen or damaged photographs. Contestants must pick up their photographs at River Day or at the office before July 1. With permission of the photographer, WRWA reserves the right to use photographs in any published materials with credit given to the photographer whenever possible.

Celebrate River Day - Saturday June 22nd 2013

Mark your calendar today to celebrate the Westport River and all it offers. On Sat. June 22 a full day of River Day festivities will take place at the Head of Westport Landing. Activities are numerous and offer fun for all ages.

• Annual 2 mile kayak and canoe paddle from Hix Bridge Landing to the Head of Westport Landing takes off at 10:00. Register on-line to save time and to guarantee a free t-shirt. WRWA members $40 (day of $50); nonmembers $50 (day of $60).Click here for more info and to register for the paddle.
• Westport Historical Society walking tours of the historic Head neighborhood and exhibits in the Bell Schoolhouse
• Live Raptor and Reptile show
• Demonstration of a working river skiff complete with "tools of the trade"
• Exhibits celebrating Westport's farming and fishing heritage
• Green businesses demonstrating energy options (solar/wind), wastewater solutions, and sustainable practices for everyday living
• Children's games - stilt making, fish printing, "wee boat" building, old fashion hoop rolling, face painting, and much more
• Entertainment by the Spindle Rock River Rats
• Food
• Photo contest with winners' photos on display

Don't miss this fun-filled day.

Two years ago, only a few months after the WRWA board of directors elected Sally Ann Ledbetter its president, she came face to face with two significant challenges: finding a successor for Gay Gillespie, the WRWA's executive director for over 20 years and "poster child" for every initiative and principle it had stood for over that time; and addressing a structural budget shortfall. Not only did she lead us through those crises with skill and grace, she established a standard of excellence that challenged us throughout her tenure.

As Sally Ann called the WRWA Board meeting to order last week, we paused for a few minutes to reflect on and celebrate her leadership, courage and vision not only to guide us through those challenging early days of her presidency, but also to strengthen our focus, spirit and resolve. Today the WRWA is in the capable hands of a strong, energetic board, and a dynamic, professional staff. Sally Ann's accomplishments are noteworthy, but perhaps her most enduring legacy is the confidence she inspired in the people: board and staff members who are the face of the WRWA. She served ably not only as our president, but also from time to time as referee, confessor, and mother superior-always with dignity, respect and a sense of humor. For all you have given and taught us, Sally Ann, we thank you.

As warm weather approaches, gardening will once again be on the minds of many enthusiasts. And once again, WRWA will be offering rain barrels for sale for $30, more than half off retail price. We still have a number of them remaining, and now is the perfect time to incorporate one into your garden plans.

These barrels, when hooked up to the downspouts/drains, provide an ample supply of water that can be used for lawns, gardens, flower pots, car washing, and other water needs. They can save water and money by using rainwater instead of drinking water for uses around the house. Water collected in rain barrels also prevents pollution by keeping rain water from flowing over paved surfaces, picking up pollutants such as fertilizer, pet waste, and motor oil, which eventually reach our rivers and streams.

WRWA encourages residents to purchase a rain barrel as stewards of the Westport River and the environment. Rain barrels are in limited supply, and will available at the WRWA office at 1151 Main Road, Westport.  

Payment may be made by check, cash, or credit card. For questions or inquiries, please call the office at (508) 636-3016, or email Betsy at  b.white@wrwa.com.