Waccamaw Riverkeeper

Meet the Waccamaw RIVERKEEPER^®

Christine Ellis has been the Waccamaw Riverkeeper since August 2006 when she replaced Hampton Shuping, Jr. who had served since June 2002.

Christine has a Bachelor of Science in Biology, specializing in Zoology, from the University of Western Ontario in London, Canada and a Master of Science in Environmental Management from the University of San Francisco in California.

Immediately prior to joining Winyah Rivers Foundation, she was employed as an Adjunct Professor at Horry-Georgetown Technical College and at Coastal Carolina University. She has an extensive background in environmental compliance and management for industry. Many of these skills translate nicely into the nonprofit world.

From Barb Postles, former WRF President ...

”Christine is an energetic environmentalist. Her former coworkers and employers speak highly of her skills and her work ethic. We are delighted to welcome her to the Riverkeeper program and full-time advocacy work,“ said Barb Postles, former WRF President.

From Christine …

I am proud to be the Waccamaw Riverkeeper, proud to be a member of the Winyah Rivers Foundation, and proud to lead the education and advocacy efforts for this worthwhile cause. I enjoy working with others who love the Waccamaw River and want to protect and preserve our natural heritage for ourselves and future generations to enjoy.

As the Waccamaw Riverkeeper, it’s my job to advocate for the ecological, social and economic health and integrity of the Waccamaw River watershed. These responsibilities include:

• educating the public regarding the work of the Winyah Rivers Foundation and the Waccamaw RIVERKEEPER^® program;
• increasing commitment to our program through membership development and involvement;
• recruiting, training and maintaining a motivated volunteer network to serve as the “eyes and ears” of their local communities;
• maintaining an on-the-river presence to investigate pollution sources, support monitoring efforts, provide education, and raise public awareness of river issues;
• coordinating with local, state and federal agencies and other environmental groups to stay abreast of actions affecting the Waccamaw River and watershed; and
• facilitating fundraising activities to support the Waccamaw RIVERKEEPER^® Program and its mission.

Want to learn more about the activities of the Waccamaw RIVERKEEPER^® Program?