Amanda Pitzer, Executive Director of Friends of the Cheat (Kingwood, WV).  Pitzer is a tenacious and dedicated educator and water advocate, having initiated many programs that earned her recognition in West Virginia. In her 10-year tenure at Friends of the Cheat, Pitzer has successfully constructed 9 treatment projects to combat acid mine drainage, secured the preservation of 3800 acres of the Cheat River Canyon, and established the Upper Cheat Water Trail with 9 public access sites.

Nominated by: Madison Ball, Restoration Program Manager of Friends of the Cheat

“I have long admired the River Heroes and aspired to bring about change to my community that they would respect. To be named a River Hero is overwhelming and a bit surreal, particularly because of the timing: my mentor Keith Pitzer was named a River Hero in 2010, after his untimely death 10 years ago this December. This is truly a full-circle moment for me, and my organization.”

Amanda Pitzer was awarded the River Hero award a decade after her predecessor, the late Keith Pitzer. Read more about Keith’s work and legacy.