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Following the merger of local Riverkeeper organizations into ShoreRivers in 2018, Hardesty served as the deputy director, then executive director of ShoreRivers since 2021.

“After 14 years of working for our rivers, I am ready for a change and for another chapter in my professional life,� Hardesty said. “I am excited, and happy, and nostalgic and sad all at once, but mostly energized by the prospect of change and feeling strong in my belief that this is the right step for me, for my family and for ShoreRivers. Rivers remain my heart, but I am ready to branch out and contribute to other environmental and social nonprofit work.�

In 2018, ShoreRivers had 21 employees and operated with a $3.5 million budget. Under Hardesty’s leadership, ShoreRivers has grown to 33 employees, six paid interns, and a $7.5 million budget.

“She has fostered an organizational culture of respect, transparency, collaboration, optimism, and hard work among the staff, helping ShoreRivers gain region-wide recognition as a responsible and impactful advocate for our rivers and become a trusted voice in Annapolis,� the organization said in a press release.

ShoreRivers said a job posting would soon be on its website at .

“I am so proud of this organization; we are in an incredible period of stability and impact, which is why I feel confident in stepping away at this time,� Hardesty said. “ShoreRivers is coming from a place of significant strength for conducting this kind of search; we confidently and optimistically look forward to selecting a fantastic new leader.�

ShoreRivers’ Governing Board has formed a search committee that will work with Hardesty and the staff to ensure an orderly transition.