If you grew up watching Schoolhouse Rock, you might remember “I’m Just a Bill” — a piece of legislation explaining how he hopes to become a law. “Well now I’m stuck in committee and I’ll sit here and wait, while a few key Congressmen discuss and debate…” However, while debate among legislators is critical, there is a second component not mentioned – testimony from subject matter experts and community stakeholders. And that’s where Ipswich River Watershed Association comes in.
On June 3rd, Erin Bonney Casey testified before the Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources in support of H.1003, and S.586, legislation IRWA has been pushing for three legislative sessions that modernizes Massachusetts’ response to water conservation during drought.
Testifying alongside IRWA was Liz Green, the Executive Director of Three Sisters, whose presence brought a powerful agricultural voice to the table — a perspective that’s too often missing in water policy conversations. Her testimony was a reminder that drought doesn’t just affect rivers — it impacts land, food security, and the livelihoods of farmers. Liz spoke about how unpredictable water access and unclear regulations put immense pressure on farms like Three Sisters, and how better drought coordination could actually help protect both food security and the natural resources farms depend on.
Advocacy is about showing up, taking up space, and demonstrating to lawmakers that their constituents care about this issue. With over 100 people and panels signed up to testify on the slate of bills the committee was considering, water and environment advocates from across the state made their presence known, and their priorities clear. We are incredibly grateful to Three Sisters for partnering with us on this, and look forward to continued advocacy for our beloved river.