Dear members of the OARS community,

I am delighted to join this dedicated and passionate community of watershed stewards at such a significant time in OARS’s journey. During my interview process I wrote down a phrase I overheard that stuck with me: “OARS is like a 40-year-old startup.” OARS has a strong foundation based on established history that includes 40 years of water quality data, loyal longstanding volunteers, members, and board members. We also have new forward-looking energy with awesome new board members and a new generation of staff to continue the science-based and policy work OARS has been doing for decades. OARS continues to evolve while staying true to its mission, which is one of the things that attracted me to the organization. OARS’ water quality science is now supplemented by new programs focused on climate science and watershed resiliency and strong collaboration with local communities, planning commissions, and state and federal governments. Such an ethos is inspiring, and I hope you’ll join me in working to fortify the organization’s next 40 years.

I am drawn to the clarity of OARS’ mission: to protect, improve, and preserve the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers and watershed for all people and wildlife. I’m heartened by OARS’ commitment to upholding its mission through rigorous water quality monitoring, environmental restoration, and resiliency-building—all while maintaining an excitement to grow, learn, and strive for organizational excellence. I’m grateful to join a team that is established and invested in watershed science and climate resiliency. OARS’s staff, board of directors, members, as well as its paddlers and anglers comprise a cohort of scientists (both citizen and professional), policy experts, climate enthusiasts, and civic leaders. I am excited to be at the table (and river) with you all as we partner in this important work.

I’d like to leave you all with this poem by Ralph Waldo Emerson. Although among his lesser-known works, I find that “Two Rivers” offers insightful imagery and inspiration for the promise we all hope our collective energies will deliver in time. I find Emerson’s words travel well. As a small organization serving a large area and representing 33 towns and 3 cities, I hope you recognize, as I do, in Emerson’s reflections that our presence on and commitment to these rivers benefits the communities and ecosystems within our 399-square-mile watershed. If, after reading this, you’re struck with hope and a willingness to jump in, please reach out to me and share your thoughts! I look forward to officially starting my work with you all in early July!

With gratitude,

Rob Munro, PhD

Incoming Executive Director, OARS

Thy summer voice, Musketaquit,

Repeats the music of the rain;

But sweeter rivers pulsing flit

Through thee, as thou through the Concord Plain.

Thou in thy narrow banks art pent:

The stream I love unbounded goes

Through flood and sea and firmament;

Through light, through life, it forward flows.

I see the inundation sweet,

I hear the spending of the steam

Through years, through men, through Nature fleet,

Through love and thought, through power and dream.

Musketaquit, a goblin strong,

Of shard and flint makes jewels gay;

They lose their grief who hear his song,

And where he winds is the day of day.

So forth and brighter fares my stream,—

Who drink it shall not thirst again;

No darkness taints its equal gleam,

And ages drop in it like rain.