Adirondack Waters: What We’re Protecting and Why it Matters
With globally unique wetlands, thousands of lakes and ponds, and more than 30,000 miles of rivers and streams, the Adirondack Park contains one of the most extensive and diverse freshwater systems on Earth. These waters sustain wildlife and forests, nourish rural communities, and power recreation and tourism - benefiting both residents and visitors alike.
Protecting these water resources is both an environmental necessity and an economic imperative. The Adirondack Park’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands form the backbone of the regional economy: visitors spend over $1.2 billion annually, supporting more than 26,000 local jobs. Clean, abundant water is at the heart of that success - over 85 percent of visitors seek waterside lodging, and roughly 70 percent come to swim, fish, or boat.
The Adirondack Watershed Institute (AWI) of Paul Smith’s College is dedicated to conserving and protecting these exceptional waters. At the intersection of scientific research, stewardship, and watershed education, AWI safeguards the environmental health and socioeconomic vitality of the Adirondack region. Our long-term monitoring, research, and stewardship not only help protect the future of Adirondack waters, but also position the region as a living laboratory and a model for freshwater conservation efforts worldwide.
Our Origin Story
The Adirondack Watershed Institute (AWI) is a program of Paul Smith’s College (PSC) that began in 1989 as the Adirondack Aquatic Institute, a local water quality monitoring program. In 1999, the program expanded to include invasive species management, and in 2000, the College launched the Watershed Stewardship Program as a separate initiative focused on invasive species prevention. Both programs grew rapidly and, in 2002, Paul Smith’s College recognized the value of uniting their efforts. The two initiatives merged to form the Adirondack Watershed Institute, which has since evolved into a leading regional voice for clean water, healthy ecosystems, and thriving communities.
Our Mission
The mission of the Adirondack Watershed Institute is to protect clean water, conserve habitat, and support the health and well-being of people in the Adirondacks through scientific inquiry, stewardship, and real-world experiences for students.
Our Vision
Our vision is that the lakes, rivers, and forest of the Adirondacks support clean water, healthy ecosystems, and vibrant communities whose citizens are inspired and empowered to protect the natural environment.