The Water’s Edge gala brings together business leaders in the community, supporters of Stroud Water Research Center, and experts in the world of fresh water. During this event, the Stroud Center recognizes an individual or organization that has made invaluable contributions to the world of fresh water or environmental conservation and presents them with the Stroud Award for Freshwater Excellence.

This year’s award honors Amy Bowers Cordalis. Cordalis is a Yurok tribal member, attorney, environmental advocate, fisherwoman, author, and cultural practitioner committed to restoring Indigenous rights and sovereignty and advancing environmental justice. She is the cofounder and executive director of the Ridges to Riffles Indigenous Conservation Group.

• Date and time: Thursday, November 5, 2026.
  • 6:30 p.m. Registration and cocktails.
  • 7:15 p.m. Lecture and award presentation.
  • 8 p.m. Dinner.
• Location: Willowdale, 115 E. Street Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348.

Ticket and sponsorship information coming soon!

Previous Water’s Edge speakers and SAFE Award winners include luminaries such as Jane Goodall, Olivia Newton-John and John Easterling, American Rivers and its president, Bob Irvin, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, Chad Pregracke, Alexandra Cousteau, Paul Greenberg, and Laura Turner Seydel.

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The 2026 Stroud Award for Freshwater Excellence Recipient: Amy Bowers Cordalis

Advocate for the Klamath River and Indigenous People

Through her recent book, The Water Remembers, Cordalis highlights the Indigenous values and lessons from the Klamath River, showcasing nature-based solutions that heal the land, waters, and people while benefiting the economy.

Her goal is to restore the river as a living relative, ensuring its health for generations. The Klamath’s renewal is not just history — it’s a path forward for all.