Heather works for the Army Corps of Engineers in Los Angeles. One day she hears that her employer is quietly eliminating Clean Water Act jurisdiction for the LA River - a channelized waterway that's seen better days - based on a Supreme Court decision that deems only 'traditionally navigable waters' worthy of protection. She immediately alerts her congressman, who happens to be Chairman of the Government Oversight committee.

A media storm descends upon the issue. George, an intrepid kayaker who plans an expedition down the entire 51 miles of said river, is caught in the public attention spotlight and his mission suddenly finds a higher purpose. Heather meets George and joins the expedition on its second day, a Saturday. Over the course of a weekend, seventeen boaters navigate down the entire LA River, getting to know their city from a whole new perspective. As it turns out, this river is quite navigable!

Heather and Goliath is a humorous and inspiring short film in which people risk their livelihood or freedom in order to stand for what they feel is right. “At the time I was not thinking I was putting my job and career on the line,” quips Heather Wylie, the Army Corps whistle blower. “The river is one of our most important natural resources, and it needed to be protected.”

Harassed by her employer after she joined the un-permitted expedition down the entire length of the LA River, Heather eventually sued the Army Corps through a whistle blower defense organization, and reached a settlement. Her story continues to garner attention from print and online publications.

Credits:
Director and Co-Producer: Thea Lucia Mercouffer, Magic Pebble Media
Producer: Heather Louise Parker, Magic Pebble Media
Filmed by: Ian Campbell
Music by: Mike Raznick

Films Festivals, 2009 Official Selections:
- Reel Film Festival for Women
- Earthdance Environmental Film Festival
- Wild and Scenic Environmental Film Festival