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Elizabeth River Project founder reflects on three decades of environmental advocacy

Marjorie Mayfield Jackson

Marjorie Mayfield Jackson is retiring from the Norfolk nonprofit, which grew from her kitchen table in the 1990s to a major force in local conservation.

The Elizabeth River Project’s new headquarters on Colley Avenue in Norfolk cost more than $8 million and has drawn national attention for its unique legal commitment to retreat when sea levels rise.

But three decades ago, the nonprofit was no more than an idea in the mind of then-Virginian-Pilot reporter Marjorie Mayfield Jackson.

Since then, the organization has grown into a powerful player in Hampton Roads conservation.

Mayfield Jackson is now stepping down as its longtime leader. WHRO recently spoke with her about her legacy and hopes for the future of the river.

Click here to read the full article

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