Founded in 1990, Salem Sound Coastwatch is a non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve and protect Salem Sound, which includes the coastal bodies of water in Salem, Marblehead, Beverly and Manchester-by-the-Sea. Today their work also encompasses education efforts within schools, and sponsoring of community events that aim to involve as many adults and children as possible in improvement efforts.
They are a membership organization with many different levels available, ranging from a Steward Membership at $500 all the way down to a Student Membership for just $15. Volunteer programs are also important to the success of Salem Sound Coastwatch's efforts, as they strive to foster advocacy of watershed areas throughout the community.