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.