Protecting the
Water You Love
We turn science into action—holding
polluters accountable and protecting
South Florida’s waters through research,
policy, and community-created solutions.
our MISSION
We protect South Florida’s waters by advocating for resilient solutions grounded in science, rooted in nature, and driven by community.
Our VISION
With science guiding our actions and fearless advocacy propelling our efforts, we inspire the community to enact meaningful change and create a lasting impact for our natural environment.
OUR VALUES
(01)
SCIENCE
Through sound science, rigorous research, and transparency, we build trust, ensuring that all decisions are data-informed.
(02)
Fearless Advocacy
Standing firm in the face of challenges, we advocate tirelessly for policies and practices that prioritize the health and resilience of the environment.
(03)
Community
Through building community knowledge and championing inclusivity, we believe in the power of every voice to drive meaningful and lasting change for all.
(04)
Nature
Believing in the intrinsic value of nature, we are committed to safeguarding and restoring our natural environment, ensuring its resilience for future generations.
SUSTAINABILITY
Land Acknowledgement
We recognize that our work takes place on the lands of the Miccosukee and Seminole peoples and honor the eight tribal nations historically tied to Florida.
Technology & Sustainability Acknowledgement
We acknowledge that the technology enabling this site relies on resources, labor, and energy that have an impact on the environment. We strive to act responsibly and sustainably in both our work and our use of technology.
our story
Why Clean Water Matters
Florida’s 8,000 miles of coastline power our economy and protect our communities. Biscayne Bay contributes $64 billion annually to Miami-Dade County’s economy through tourism, jobs, and property value. Clean water also sustains coral reefs, fisheries, storm protection, and public health—making it essential to both our prosperity and future.
South Florida’s Unique Challenges
Florida’s waterways are particularly vulnerable to pollution because of our low elevation, porous limestone geology, and the threat of sea level rise. In South Florida, climate change isn’t just a computer model; it’s daily life. Miami is a thin sliver of dry ground surrounded by water on all sides — including below our feet. Our porous, low-lying geology makes us among the world’s most vulnerable cities to sea level rise. Flooding and failing infrastructure constantly flush pollution into our waterways, causing them to spiral into decline.
Our Role on the Front Lines
On the front lines against these daunting challenges, you can find Miami Waterkeeper, a small but mighty team of fearless advocates for clean water. We occupy a void that would otherwise be filled by pollution, floodwaters, and environmental destruction. Miami Waterkeeper works toward a vision of swimmable, drinkable, and fishable water for all. These are rights granted to us by the Clean Water Act, but environmental laws work only if people are willing to stand up for them. Empowering the community, we use science, advocacy, and outreach to protect our waterways from pollution and prepare South Florida for the future.
How Miami Waterkeeper Creates Change
Miami Waterkeeper focuses on clean water, ecosystem protection, and sea level rise resiliency. First, we tackle issues of clean water throughout the Biscayne Bay watershed, from the Everglades to our coral reefs. Second, we protect the ecosystems that depend on that clean water, including corals, seagrasses, and mangroves. Finally, we focus on sea level rise resiliency, which guides all areas of our work. We employ a multidisciplinary approach, which includes science, policy & advocacy, and education & outreach.
Our team
Scientists, advocates, educators, and partners working together to protect South Florida’s waterways.
MEET OUR TEAMWork with us
Join a mission-driven team using science, advocacy, and community power to protect the water we love.
VIEW CAREERSour impact
Transparent reporting on our science, advocacy, finances, and clean water impact.
2025 Annual Report
2024 Annual Report
2023 Annual Report
2022 Annual Report
2021 Annual Report
2020 Annual Report
2019 Annual Report
2018 Annual Report
2017 Annual Report
financial transparency
We are committed to transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of every dollar we receive. View our IRS Form 990s and financial disclosures below.
EIN: 27-3627697
Tax status: 501(c)(3) Public Charity
2024 Form 990
2022 Form 990
2020 Form 990
2018 Form 990
2016 Form 990
2023 Form 990
2021 Form 990
2019 Form 990
2017 Form 990
2016 Form 990 EZ
THE PARTNERSHIP
Miami Waterkeeper’s PartnerSHIP recognizes and engages our most dedicated supporters – leaders who provide the steady, unrestricted support that protects South Florida’s waters when it matters most.
Join PartnerSHIPOUR GRANT FUNDERS
Meet the generous grant funders who powering our campaigns and programs.
Become a Grant Funderfaqs
Miami Waterkeeper is a science-based nonprofit organization protecting South Florida’s waters through research, advocacy, legal action, and community engagement.
Miami Waterkeeper protects South Florida’s waters by advocating for resilient solutions grounded in science, rooted in nature, and driven by community.
We work across South Florida, with a focus on Biscayne Bay and connected waterways throughout Miami-Dade and Broward Counties and the surrounding region.
Water safety in South Florida can change quickly, especially after heavy rain. Runoff, sewage leaks, and flooding can raise bacteria levels in canals, bays, and beaches. Miami Waterkeeper conducts weekly water quality monitoring across Biscayne Bay and shares results so the public can make informed decisions before getting in the water.
Scientists test water for fecal indicator bacteria and key health indicators that affect public health. Monitoring helps identify pollution sources early, before problems become widespread. Miami Waterkeeper conducts regular monitoring and uses the data to inform communities and decision-makers.
The most common causes include stormwater runoff, sewage leaks, failing septic systems, and fertilizer pollution. Miami Waterkeeper tracks these sources through research, community reporting, and policy analysis to push for long-term solutions.
Heavy rain washes bacteria, nutrients, oil, and waste from streets and yards into nearby waterways. Flooding can also overwhelm aging sewage systems, increasing the risk of overflows. Miami Waterkeeper conducts weekly water quality monitoring and shares results to help you make informed decisions before you get in the water.
Poor water quality can lead to beach closures, health risks, fish kills, flooding impacts, and economic losses tied to tourism and fishing.
Miami Waterkeeper works to prevent pollution before it harms communities and to hold polluters accountable when it does.
Yes. The community plays a critical role in protecting water by reporting pollution, reducing fertilizer use, maintaining septic systems, and supporting clean water solutions. Miami Waterkeeper’s 1,000 Eyes on the Water program trains residents to report pollution so scientists can investigate quickly.
Miami Waterkeeper shares timely water quality information so you can make informed decisions before recreating. Check the Swim Guide app for the most accurate information.
Anyone can get involved by donating, volunteering, reporting pollution through our 1,000 Eyes program, attending events, or taking action on policy issues.
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