St. Johns RIVERKEEPER (SJRK) marked Earth Day on April 22 with a State of the Watershed event, bringing together community leaders, supporters, and advocates to celebrate progress and highlight ongoing efforts to protect the St. Johns River.
During the event, we announced two meaningful education grants established in honor of the First Responders who assisted in the search and recovery efforts following the tragic boating accident of Tommy Davis in December 2025.
A generous $50,000 gift from John and Anne Baker will fund a full year of Educational Boat Trips for Duval County students, expanding access to hands-on learning experiences on the river. In addition, Bryan Family Advisors to the Henry and Lucy Gooding Fund, announced an additional $50,000 donation ensuring continued investment in St. Johns RIVERKEEPER’s education programs.
“These gifts represent a powerful way to honor both the life of Tommy Davis and the dedication of the First Responders who serve our community,” said Jimmy Orth, executive director for St. Johns RIVERKEEPER. “By investing in education and water safety, these donors are helping create a lasting legacy that will benefit young people for years to come.”
SJRK’s educational boat trips offer students a unique opportunity to explore the river’s ecology while learning critical water safety skills. For many participants, it is their first time on a boat – an experience that builds confidence, awareness, and respect for the water in a safe, supportive environment.
These programs go beyond environmental education, equipping students with knowledge that can help prevent future accidents and foster a lifelong connection to the river.
The announcement was a highlight of the evening, underscoring the commitment of our supporters to community service, youth education, and of course, our St. Johns River.
Learn More About St. Johns RIVERKEEPER’s Education Programs
Our education programs are designed to connect students and educators to the magnificent St. Johns River and inspire the next generation of life-long river advocates.