Grant Funding Freeze Creates Uncertainty for River Projects

Federal grants play an important role in amplifying the membership contributions and donations that sustain American Whitewater’s mission. These grants account for a significant portion of our budget, supporting important projects that protect and enhance river access and recreation opportunities across the country. An example of recent success is the creation of our revised river safety code, open source river signage toolbox, and river safety video series, all produced under grant funding from the United States Coast Guard. We have also had several partnership agreements with the Forest Service and National Park Service over the years allowing agencies to leverage our expertise and skills to improve river access.

A memo from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued in January has created new uncertainty around federal funding destined for all kinds of causes you may care about. This includes over $400,000 in grant funding awarded to American Whitewater for work this year. Although a judge in Rhode Island has temporarily blocked the memo, the future of these projects remains uncertain, threatening to stall or cancel efforts that benefit our members and local communities.

This isn’t a partisan issue. When we advocate in Washington, D.C., we do so as a nonpartisan organization, representing the unified voice of river lovers from all backgrounds. In an increasingly divided political climate, outdoor recreation remains a powerful force for bringing people together. Our outdoor heritage is not only a core part of American culture, it’s also a huge part of our economy. In 2023 outdoor recreation supported over 5 million jobs and accounted for 2.3% of GDP. Economic benefits to rural gateway communities in particular depend on investments in our public lands and waters. Cuts to this sector could have lasting impacts to our public lands, and throttle a significant economic engine for local economies.

American Whitewater projects that are currently stalled include: 

• Taylor River Access (CO): Partnering with the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests, outfitters and the local boating community, American Whitewater plans to improve the The Slot access area on the Taylor River in Colorado. The access enhancements will improve safety, erosion issues, and the overall experience for all types of river users enjoying the Taylor River. American Whitewater raised over $150,000 for the construction phase of the project from the State of Colorado and we are relying on the Forest Service to provide the remaining funds required.

• Wild and Scenic South Fork Smith River Access (CA): In partnership with Six Rivers National Forest, this project will improve a trail to facilitate use by rafters and other users at the Craigs Beach River Access - part of the Smith River National Recreation Area. 

• Development of tools that can be used by the hydropower industry and river advocates to understand the economic value of hydropower projects and opportunities to balance power generation, environmental needs, and recreational opportunities. The tools we are working with industry and federal partners to develop will advance dam safety, improve the federal hydropower licensing process, and facilitate license surrender and dam removal for those projects with poor economics.

These projects are just some of the ones we touch directly. Thousands more place-based projects across the country face a similarly uncertain future as administrative reviews and court challenges play out. It’s likely that other public interest projects you care about are also being impacted. As you talk with your elected representatives and community leaders, tell them what public lands, clean water, and outdoor recreation means to you personally.

We will keep you informed as this situation unfolds, and let you know when action opportunities arise for you to lend your voice in support of this work.