Pomfret
Deen has served as a river steward with the council for 19 years, working to protect and restore the Connecticut River and its tributaries in the Twin States, according to a news release from the Greenfield, Mass.-based nonprofit organization.
Deen described his work as “resisting the bad things that could happen to the Connecticut River and celebrating the good things about the river.”
He led the organization’s efforts to fight Vermont Yankee’s thermal pollution, and most recently was its point person on the relicensing of three hydroelectric dams in Wilder, Bellows Falls and Vernon, Vt.
“David has been a linchpin for our organization and (the council) wouldn’t be what it is today without his steadfast dedication and many hours of work on behalf of the river, its fish and the communities in the Upper Valley,” said Andrew Fisk, executive director.
“David understands the value of working together for a common cause and how to bring people together to enact change so that everybody can enjoy this great river.”
A Vermont legislator for more than 25 years, Deen helped enact Vermont’s Clean Water Act last year as chair of the House Natural Resources, Fish and Wildlife Committee.
Deen, D-Westminster, will continue in his legislative role and vows to continue working toward clean water for all Vermonters, the release said.
Information about upcoming retirement parties for Deen will be posted at ctriver.org/news-events/.
He will continue to serve the watershed council as an honorary trustee.