WHO WE ARE
The Riparian County Stakeholders Coalition (RCSC) represents the interests of six counties in the Apalachicola River Basin: Jackson, Calhoun, Gulf, Franklin, Liberty, and Gadsden. Established in 2012 through county resolutions and a compact, we have become a united voice advocating for the communities and resources along the Apalachicola River. Our membership includes two members from each county, appointed by their respective county commissions.​
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OUR PARTNERSHIPS
The RCSC works closely with various Florida agencies, including the Northwest Florida Water Management District (NWFWMD) and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). We are part of the larger Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint (ACF) Stakeholder Coalition and collaborate with organizations such as the Apalachicola Riverkeeper, the Apalachee Regional Planning Council (ARPC), and the Partnership for a Resilient Apalachicola Bay.
EVALUATE: We assess the impacts of policies, proposals, and events affecting the Apalachicola River Basin using the best available science, including data developed with RCSC funding or from other sources.
COMMUNICATE: We engage with elected officials, local governments, businesses, and other stakeholders to keep them informed, foster consensus, and facilitate discussions on important matters.
ADVOCATE: We promote the interests of our counties at federal, regional, and state levels, ensuring that their voices are heard on critical issues affecting the river and its communities.
WHAT WE DO​
WHY RCSC
MATTERS!
The Apalachicola River is a natural, cultural, and historical treasure that sustains the quality of life for thousands of people living along its 107-mile path to the Gulf. Our work not only protects this vital waterway but also opens new economic opportunities for the Riparian Counties while preserving the ecosystem.
CALL TO ACTION!
We are committed to keeping our stakeholders informed and engaged as we navigate the complex issues facing the Apalachicola River Basin. Your input is vital to our efforts to protect our river, our communities, and our way of life. Join us in advocating for a future where the natural beauty and economic potential of our region can thrive.
CURRENT CHALLENGES
Resource Management:
Federal operations often prioritize upstream users, leading to erratic water flows that impact the health of the Apalachicola River and its ecosystems.
Environmental Concerns: We address issues such as sand obstructing floodplain sloughs, drying tupelo swamps, and the collapse of the oyster fishery. We also work on projects to restore flow in areas blocked by river sand and debris.
Navigation:
With federal funding for lock repairs at dams in the ACF basin, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) aims to manage the river for commercial navigation. RCSC is actively involved in ensuring that these efforts are balanced, considering environmental preservation and economic opportunities.
CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES RCSC IS ACTIVELY PURSUING
Improved Communication: Strengthening connections with upstream stakeholders to develop collaborative solutions.
Restoration Projects: Collaborating on slough restoration and exploring fish passage around the Jim Woodruff Dam to support native species like sturgeon.
Advanced Modeling: Developing meaningful ways to determine how much water the Apalachicola River needs throughout the year to sustain its natural and cultural resources.
For more information or to get involved, please reach out today!
CONTACT US!
• Jim McClellan, Chair
Email: jim@tupelomedia.com
Phone: 850/748-2472
• Ken Jones, P.E., RCSC Administrator
Phone: 850/545-9436