Whether you're a seasoned advocate or just getting started, everyone is welcome to join.

Participants will meet with their legislators in teams with a designated team leader to make sure the conversation flows smoothly. Mass Rivers will provide talking points and help teams set up meetings with legislators. We also hold online workshops in advance to go over the issues, and make sure everyone feels comfortable and confident entering the State House.

For more on the advocacy process, check out our Advocacy Toolkit!

9:30 am - Check In + Light breakfast

10 am - Opening Session. We will welcome everyone to our Fifth Lobby for the Rivers Day, and hear from Co-Chairs of the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, Senator Rebecca Rausch and Representative Christine Barber, as well as the drought bill sponsors, Senator Jamie Eldridge and Representatives Joan Meschino and Dave Rogers.

11 am-3 pm - Legislator meetings happen throughout the day: The first meetings will start promptly at 11am, and the last may start at 3pm. Most will likely be within 11am-1pm and will be around 30 minutes each.

3:30 pm - Happy hour debrief: Carrie Nation, 11 Beacon Street!

The Drought Bill (S.586/H.1003) is Mass Rivers’ top legislative priority this session. It would create a clear approach to outdoor water conservation measures during periods of drought when our rivers and water supplies need it most. So far, the bill has 40 co-sponsors and we are asking for drought management to be included in the environmental bond bill.

The Nature for All Bill (H.901/S.2571) would set aside revenue from the existing sporting goods sales tax to dedicate $100 million each year for the purposes of land acquisition, the restoration or improvement of nature for water resources, to create parks and trails; for forests, farms, wildlife habitat; and to advance climate resiliency and environmental justice goals. It’s supported by a broad and diverse coalition.

• Nature for Massachusetts legislation webpage>>

Codifying the Division of Ecological Restoration (H.986/S.73). Since DER was created 15 years ago, its work has removed over 65 dams, restored over 3,000 acres of wetland, upgraded more than 120 culverts across 90 cities and towns, and reconnected 700 miles of river. Demand for its work has grown exponentially. This bill would codify the Division of Ecological Restoration within the Department of Fish and Game and solidify the Commonwealth’s commitment to river and wetland restoration.

• DER Ecological Restoration Project Map>>

You will meet with your legislators, Senators and/or House Representatives who represent you, and your local watershed! Find your legislators here >>

Yes! We want everyone to feel comfortable and confident entering the State House, so we will host three online workshops to give you background on the legislative process, our priority bills, and what to expect from the day. They’ll each be the same content, so you only have to attend one. The online workshops will be held:

• September 30, noon - 1:00

• September 30, 7:00 - 8:00

• October 6, noon - 1:00

You’re also welcome to check out our online Advocacy Toolkit & advocacy page for more on our priority bill & the legislative process.