Sometimes to save a river, you have to buy it.
Western Rivers Conservancy buys land along the West’s finest rivers and streams to conserve habitat for fish and wildlife, protect key sources of cold water, and create recreational access for all to enjoy. We have protected more than 455 river miles and over 227,000 acres of land in nine western states, securing permanent public access wherever possible. Our approach to river conservation is effective, tangible and permanent.
Featured Project
01
Klamath River
In May 2025, following their 23-year partnership, Western Rivers Conservancy and the Yurok Tribe completed the Blue Creek Salmon Sanctuary in the largest single “land back” deal in California history, a milestone for river conservation and tribal sovereignty in the West.
View Project
Featured Project
02
Tarryall Creek
Western Rivers Conservancy protected a key piece of a major migration corridor for elk, mule deer, pronghorn and other animals and opened access to five miles of Tarryall Creek by creating the Collard Ranch State Wildlife Area with Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
View Project
Featured Project
03
Big Hole River
Western Rivers Conservancy is working in Montana's Big Hole Valley to deliver water for imperiled fluvial Arctic grayling, to preserve recreational access, and to protect habitat for the area’s diverse wildlife.
View Project
Explore WRC
About
Learn more about our impact and why we buy land along rivers. Meet the WRC staff and board, read our annual reports and meet the partners who help us get the job done.
Learn more
Give
Help WRC buy land along great rivers around the West to protect habitat for fish and wildlife and create public access for all.
Learn more
Discover
Read the blog, download newsletters, explore rivers you love (or never knew existed). Learn more about WRC’s conservation efforts across the West.
Learn more
Projects
WRC buys and conserves land along rivers throughout the American West. Learn more about our projects, state by state, from Washington to California, Oregon to Colorado, and beyond.
Learn more
