In early 1996, representatives from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), state, federal, and local government agencies, environmental organizations, and local businesses met with concerned citizens and elected officials at Northwest Florida State College to discuss environment quality and economic development. The sharing of concerns from participants and the discussion on philosophies of ecosystem management from the FDEP and Eglin AFB sparked a partnership for sustainable development that is now called the Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance of Northwest Florida State College (CBA).

Healthy local waterways are the foundation of our economic security and identity. We are driven to provide a sustainable Choctawhatchee Basin for future generations. CBA inspires water stewardship, continually growing a network of supporters to protect our precious natural resources.