Who We Are

About Us

The Freshwater Institute is a nationally recognized program of the non-profit Conservation Fund, a 501(c)(3) organization based in Arlington, VA. Recognizing the value of clean water resources, the Freshwater Institute works with government, industry, nonprofits and individuals to shape sustainable, environmentally responsible solutions to water resource management.

Over two decades, The Conservation Fund’s Freshwater Institute has become one of the nation's premier research and development facilities dedicated to the sustainable use of water. From its campus in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, the Institute’s staff combines applied research, engineering, and economic development skills to show the critical role fresh water resources play in the achievement of economic and environmental goals. Freshwater Institute projects provide demonstration of practices or development of technology that meet concern for environmental protection and the recognized need for fair return on investment.

Our Mission

The Freshwater Institute program develops and validates sustainable solutions that provide the capacity to meet the challenges of economic growth and environmental stewardship.