The 2023 Alison J. Walsh Award for Outstanding Environmental Advocacy Winner
John Marsland
John Marsland is the President and Founder of Friends of the Blackstone, which he launched in 1990. His decades-long commitment to the Blackstone—once dubbed “America’s most polluted river”—is inspiring and continues to this day.
Among his many accomplishments, John has helped remove incredible amounts of trash and debris during cleanup events hosted by the Blackstone River Watershed Council and Friends of the Blackstone.
He has participated in and organized advocacy events, including publicized expeditions to promote the ongoing need to support the Blackstone through cleanup efforts, pollution reduction and prevention, improved fish passage and more.
Save The Bay’s Policy Team has a deep respect and admiration for John. He is a persistent and respectful advocate, who always speaks out for the river and all who appreciate its beauty, history and importance.