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 freshwater 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. Willowdale, a gorgeous reconstructed bank barn, is Chester County’s newest event space.

Businesses can treat their clients to an unforgettable evening by purchasing a sponsorship.

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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