Photo Credit: Don, Adobe Stock
River conservation – restoring the vital arteries of the West
Rivers
Living rivers are vital to the diversity of life on earth, from the tens of thousands of sandhill cranes that migrate from Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge along the Rio Grande to as far north as southwestern Alberta, Canada, to the human communities whose history is inextricably linked to the ebb and flow of their local waterways. When rivers dry up and vanish, that life vanishes too.
The Wild Rivers Program seeks to revive free-flowing, living rivers in the American West and to achieve a sustainable water future by working to protect clean water, healthy flows, and resilient communities.
Wild Rivers Program Work
WildEarth Guardians is a voice for Western rivers. From the iconic Rio Grande to the Colorado River, we believe in living, dynamic rivers from source to sea. Learn about our vision for the Rio Grande: America’s Great River, the challenges it faces, and how you can help.
Our Vision
Like any living thing, the Rio has a pulse. We strive to restore that pulse—and return life to the river.
The Landscape
The Rio Grande’s flows carve unique geologic features, create a haven for wildlife, and support many human communities.
A Challenged Rio
The Rio faces formidable challenges, from archaic water law to dams, pollution, and climate change.
Brave New Wild Blog
The Middle Rio Grande’s San Acacia Reach: A Primer on Proposed Projects
Opportunities and threats to restoring a Living Rio Grande
Engineering alone cannot solve water scarcity
New Mexico needs new new perspectives to protect the state’s living rivers
The Fierce Green Hope of Earth Day
It is this fierce green hope that has fueled Guardians’ unapologetic defense of nature and her wonder.
Rivers Press
Fish and Wildlife Service denies federal protections for imperiled Rio Grande fish species
Federal officials announce the Rio Grande chub and Rio Grande sucker do not warrant listing under the Endangered Species Act
] Read more >Rio Grande now just a trickle of water in Albuquerque
It’s time water managers stop draining the Rio Grande to death and bring the river back to life.
Read more >Major kokanee salmon die-off at Foster Reservoir caused by extreme drawdown at dam
The lower reservoir levels are aimed at helping baby salmon pass through outlets deep on the dams they'd otherwise struggle to locate.
Read more >