Gowanus Canal Conservancy

Mission Gowanus Canal Conservancy works to build an equitable, thriving and resilient urban ecosystem in Gowanus — its waterway, urban forest, parks and open space — through education, stewardship, and advocacy that empower our community. Vision Through GCC’s work caring and advocating for the environment, we will see a Gowanus neighborhood adapted to the impacts of climate change with a healthy urban forest; accessible, well-maintained public waterfronts, parks and open space; robust green and grey infrastructure to manage flooding, sewage and storm surge; and a clean, biodiverse waterway, with restored salt marsh, coastal plant communities and abundant wildlife. The people who live, work and learn in the community will have equitable access to neighborhood green space and the waterway, particularly public housing residents, people from historically marginalized communities, and people at disproportionate risk from climate change. They will have access to local green jobs and opportunities and will be empowered to make positive environmental change in the neighborhood and city through stewardship, education and advocacy. Through our work, the Gowanus community will become a successful model for urban climate resilience and environmental justice across the city.