For John Zaktansky, Riverkeeping is Activism

For John Zaktansky, the role of journalism expands beyond the page. After working for the Williamsport Newspaper for a great many years, in early 2020 he took over the daunting role of middle Susquehanna riverkeeper. Although seemingly different in responsibility, he believes riverkeeping is merely an extension of his former journalistic career.

An ardent outdoorsman and conservationist, Zaktansky welcomed the challenge of switching careers as a means to use his writing skills in another capacity— one that aligned with his personal interests as well as professional. He views his new job as a way of education. 

“Teaching people about different environmental topics is very different and unique in our area,” he mused, likely in reference to the more conservative environmental values of many of its inhabitants. However, he views this as a unique opportunity to raise awareness for endangered animals and areas. His writing as the riverkeeper is able to influence local politics and legislation, in addition to personal values of peers.

Although initially worried about the prospect of “tak[ing] that leap of running a non-profit”, especially when “knowing nothing about it”, he was inspired to accept the position after his daughter pointed out a bald eagle’s nest to him. In close proximity to a newfound construction site, Zaktansky took quick action in preserving its natural environment. He was eventually able to close construction down, and accepted the full-time job position soon after.
Patrolling approximately 11,000 square miles of the river, approximately one-sixth altogether, Zaktanksy faces the daunting task of conservancy and public interaction. “Every day is different,” he said when asked about his daily tasks, “and there’s a lot of stress that comes from making sure that all works out numbers wise and doing the bookkeeping”.  However, his favorite part of the job are the days when he is able to simply exist in nature— working to protect the ecosystem and to promote interaction with it. Those who are interested in getting involved or donating can visit www.middlesusquehannariverkeeper.com for more information.