Our Mission

The River Institute's mission is to be a leader in environmental research, education and community action on the St. Lawrence River and other large river ecosystems in Canada and the world.

About the River Institute

Located on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, the River Institute was established in 1994 as a not-for-profit (charitable registration #13885 2363 RR0001), community science education and research discovery center with a focus on the St. Lawrence River.

Our programs connect people with the environment, inspire scientific curiosity, advance Great Lakes and global freshwater ecosystem research, inform decision-making, and facilitate action and innovation that support ecosystem restoration and conservation. Our goal is to achieve sustainable, thriving, and resilient freshwater ecosystems, along with the improved health and wellbeing of local communities.

What sets the River Institute apart is our unique ability to bring together high quality, community-driven scientific research, hands-on science education, advanced science and technology training, and meaningful forms of public engagement and communication. Our work is founded on strong, long-term relationships with Indigenous partners and collaborations with community members and groups, public agencies, academia, and industry.

The River Institute’s holistic approach to improving environmental health and community wellbeing has earned the organization prominent recognition in the Great Lakes Region and beyond. In 2023, the River Institute was awarded the prestigious John R. (Jack) Vallentyne Award by the International Association for Great Lakes Research for “important and sustained efforts to inform and educate the public and policymakers on great lakes issues.” In 2018, the excellence of the River Institute’s education programs was recognized with the NSERC National Award for Science Promotion. The organization was also selected by the Canadian Museum of Nature as one of three nationwide finalists for a 2022 Nature Inspiration Award.