Ash and Water (Dir. Nic Samuelson). Short Documentary. While Carolinians enjoy the Catawba River, its future is uncertain at best. Known as one of the most endangered waterways in America, a group of river-keepers struggle to fight polluters and educate the population. Our film follows the Catawba River Keeper David Merryman and a young scientist as they reveal a hidden threat affecting the water we drink and recreate in.