Welcome ::
The WATERSHEDSUNITE project was created in 2000
by Cedar Rapids, Iowa natives James Martin and Brian Emerson. In
September 2006 James and Brian embarked on a 14day 300 mile
exploration of the Cedar River from Austin, MN to Columbus Jct., IA.
The the story of the navigation highlights the sights and sounds of
late summer on one of Iowa's largest rivers. The video details the
challenges faced on the trip and will give the viewer an intimate look
into the character of the Cedar River.
-Our goals for the video. We want to decrease the
intimidation of the river and invite and encourage people to get on the
water. We want people to realize they can have tremendously fulfilling
and meaningful recreation close to home. We want to challenge the idea
that we need to travel great distances outside of Iowa to experience
natural beauty. We want people to realize that they can participate in
addressing water quality issues by simply interacting with their local
waters. We want to challenge others to share their stories and
experiences, so we can begin to collectively realize the true value of
our fresh water resources.
-Quotes
James: 'Our recreation does not need to be so consumptive. A three hour
drive allowed us to have a 14 day adventure. This unique experience has
given us a valuable perspective of our landscape and a renewed respect
for our local waters. I challenge others to seek out similar
adventures, knowing that they too can contribute to understanding our
home and waters.'
Brian: 'The video arose from James and I seeking
to understand the character of the Cedar River. What we realized from
the trip is that there is a urgent need for us to reconnect with our
local waters. We need to not only experience its profound beauty but
also witness the harsh realities. The water quality issues we face are
the same as others across the globe. We need to access the tremendous
amount of local knowledge that exists in the stories and experiences of
those closest to the Cedar. Then we can begin to create dialog and
understanding as we look to reclaim and embrace the vital nature of our
fresh water resources.'
The video has been submitted for consideration to
the Iowa Independent Film Festival, The Hardacre Film Festival, and the
Landlocked Film Festival.
-We have decided that the first 40 copies of our
the video will be available for the price of $5.(Email:
watershedsunite@hotmail.com) This will pay for our materials as well as
shipping and handling. We hope to create a revolving fund in which the
fees collected and additional donations will go directly to duplication
and distribution costs. We want to share our story with all those
interested.
-In addition the video will be available on You Tube on March 22nd, 2011.
-Our contact: watershedsunite@hotmail.com
www.watershedsunite.org
You tube: watersheds channel or search watershedsunite
and join discussions on Facebook.
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