Mission
Aquatic ecosystem such as rivers and wetlands are the lifeblood of the Southwest. Our Desert Waters Program seeks to protect these treasures. Through our Desert Lands and Wildlife Program, we work to ensure the long-term survival of native wildlife--not just in remnant populations but in ecologically meaningful numbers distributed across their historic ranges. We believe that lasting success depends upon obtaining local support for conservation efforts. Through our Education for a Sustainable Society Program, we seek to build that support by creating an informed and active constituency for protecting biodiversity throughout the region.
Desert Waters Program
Aquatic ecosystems such as rivers and wetlands are the lifeblood of the Southwest. Our Desert Waters Program seeks to protect these treasures. Much of our focus is on the Rio Grande, a river with a rich history that has been severely damaged over the past century by dams, channelization, diversions, and pollution. We are working to restore the Rio Grande, so that it once again functions as a river, whose year-round and seasonal peak flow sustain a rich mosaic of natural habitats and wildlife, including native fish like the shovelnose sturgeon.
We believe that a healthy Rio Grande benefits people as well, by providing recreational and ecotourism opportunities, an enhanced quality of life, and a long-term renewable supply of clean water for our farms and cities. Current projects include working with landowners to obtain water for the river and restore habitat, working with federal agencies to improve river management, public education efforts such as our Rio Grande aquarium, and restoration projects such like the Picacho Wetlands.
Desert Lands Program
Through our Desert Lands and Wildlife Program, we work to ensure the long-term survival of native wildlife--not just in remnant populations but in ecologically meaningful numbers distributed across their historic ranges.
Scientists tell us the world is currently undergoing a biological meltdown in which plants and animals are going extinct due to human causes many times faster than would normally occur. We seek to reverse this trend by working in our region to reconcile the activities of people with the long-term conservation needs of wild creatures, thereby helping to ensure the survival of both.
Educational for a Sustainable Society
We believe that lasting success depends upon obtaining local support for conservation efforts. Through our Education for a Sustainable Society Program, we seek to build that support by creating an informed and active constituency for protecting biodiversity throughout the region. Our efforts focus on the changes people can make to bring their lives and communities into balance with the natural world.