About C-HAWQ
Turning scientific research into real-world restoration
C-HAWQ, pronounced "sea-hawk," is a science-first Florida nonprofit writing the playbook on water quality and habitat restoration.
Who we are
Objective science that clears the path for clean water
C-HAWQ is a Naples-based nonprofit that partners with municipal leaders to turn stalled water quality problems into science-backed restoration projects.
We don't advocate for one solution or one interest group. We provide the objective research that helps municipalities make the best decisions for their communities.
- Technical Assistance: Fee-free advisory support for Florida municipalities: field science, independent engineering review and cost estimates.
- Projects: Nature-based solutions developed with Florida communities, from first meeting to finished project.
- Research: University-backed research on residential canals and coastal water quality.
- Community: Water testing, events and education that bring residents into the process.
Our team
The people doing the work
-
Chris Ripley
Executive Director
-
Emily Begin
Vice Executive Director
-
Logan Davies
Head of Wildlife & Conservation
-
Ryan Begin
Creative Director
-
Lorine Najjar
Project Manager
-
Nathan Hewitt
Environmental Research Technician
Our advisors
Backed by academic, scientific and professional experts
-
Chris Stallings, PhD
Professor, USF College of Marine Science
-
Holden Harris, PhD
University of Florida
-
Michael Allen, PhD
Professor, UF School of Forest, Fisheries & Geomatics Sciences
Director, UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station
-
Christopher B. Burke, PhD, PE, D.WRE, Dist.M.ASCE NED
Professor, University of Illinois Chicago College of Engineering
-
David Kaplan, PhD
Professor, UF Engineering School of Sustainable Infrastructure & Environment
Director, H.T. Odum Center for Wetlands
Associate Director, UF Center for Coastal Solutions
-
Vincent Encomio, PhD
Extension Agent, Martin & St. Lucie Counties, Florida Sea Grant, University of Florida IFAS
-
Mike Sipos
Collier County Extension Agent, Florida Sea Grant, University of Florida IFAS
-
Holly Abeels
Extension Agent III, Brevard County, Florida Sea Grant, University of Florida IFAS
-
Nick Tremmel, PE
Nature-Based Engineering Expert
-
Jonathan Koepke, CPESC
Environmental Design Expert
Contact
Get in touch
Send us a message through our contact form and the right person on our team will get back to you.
The Coastal Habitat and Water Quality Initiative3375 Tamiami Trl E #100
Naples, FL 34112
Nonprofit information
Transparency
C-HAWQ is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Our IRS Form 990 and other financial documents are available on request. Request them through our contact form.
A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling toll-free 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state. Florida registration #CH83290.