Western Rivers Action Network

Healthy rivers are essential to our livelihoods and wildlife

Photo: Jonathan Buford

Western Rivers Action Network (WRAN) is Audubon's multi-state grassroots effort to protect rivers. Join today.

In the arid West we are all connected by rivers; they are the lifeblood of our land, our economy, our way of life. Western rivers, like the Colorado River and its tributaries, provide water for tens of millions of people, including Native American tribes and the major cities of Albuquerque, Denver, Phoenix, and Tucson. The Colorado River also irrigates nearly six million acres of farms and ranches.

We aren’t alone in our reliance on western rivers. Many birds and wildlife depend on these riparian habitats. The Colorado River and its tributaries support some of the most abundant and diverse bird communities in the arid West, serving as home to some 400 species.

Unfortunately, western rivers are at risk. Ongoing drought, diversions, and demand are triggering declines in water supply as well as declines in cottonwood-willow forests and native marsh river habitat. Many of the birds that depend on these rivers and habitat, such as the Western Yellow-billed Cuckoo and Bell’s Vireo, are in decline.

However, together we can help. We can advocate for conservation actions that maintain river and groundwater levels, enhance the health of our environment, restore valuable habitat, and promote reliable water supplies for humans, birds, fish, and wildlife. 

Join WRAN today.

Western Rivers Action Network

Join the Western Rivers Action Network

Join Audubon's Western Water Action Network to receive action alerts about water issues, as well as issues that are affecting birds nationwide. You will be able to weigh in on water management decisions that will shape the future of Western rivers, lakes and the birds, wildlife, and people that depend on them.

Birds That Rely on Western Rivers

Join the Western Rivers Action Network
Western Rivers Action Network

Join the Western Rivers Action Network

Whether you are an individual or part of an organization, WRAN can help you become a powerful advocate for Arizona's rivers!

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The Economic Impact of Arizona's Rivers, Lakes, and Streams
Western Rivers Action Network

The Economic Impact of Arizona's Rivers, Lakes, and Streams

How water-based outdoor recreation contributes to statewide and local economies.

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Take Action for Western Rivers
Conservation

Take Action for Western Rivers

Stop by periodically to stay up to date on how you can stand up for rivers across the Colorado River Basin. Take action today!

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Western Rivers Brewers' Council
Our Work

Western Rivers Brewers' Council

Craft beer depends on reliable water – and so do our rivers. Take action today alongside your favorite craft breweries!

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WRAN Resources
Western Rivers Action Network

WRAN Resources

Learn the information you need to know to help protect Arizona's rivers!

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Water and Birds in the Arid West: Habitats in Decline
Western Rivers Action Network

Water and Birds in the Arid West: Habitats in Decline

The first comprehensive look at the unprecedented impact of western water loss and climate change on birds

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Water in the News
Western Rivers Action Network

Water in the News

In the arid west, it's not unusual for water issues to make the news.

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WRAN Events
Western Rivers Action Network

WRAN Events

Jump in before it's too late!      

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How you can help, right now