Eagle River Fund

Est. 2024

The Eagle River Fund has secured a commitment of $1 million toward its goal of $5 million. These funds will support river restoration in the Eagle River Valley for decades to come.

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The Eagle River Fund concept arose in late 2019, thanks to the vision and support of Tom and Margie Gart, Eagle River Valley locals who had been inspired by the mission of the Yampa River Fund, which deployed in 2019 near Steamboat, CO.

Following stakeholder meetings that brought together community partners, municipalities, state and federal agencies, private landowners, local business groups, local outfitters, and more, a feasibility assessment was undertaken, and the decision to proceed with Eagle River Fund development was made.

The Eagle River Fund will provide long-term financial support to fund activities that protect, enhance and maintain the streamflows and overall health of the Eagle River watershed.

 

To learn more or get involved in the Eagle River Fund, please visit the Eagle River Fund website or contact Melanie Smith, Development Director, at smith@eagleriverco.org.

What is a Water Fund?

A water fund is a tool for bringing together water users, providers and communities to plan for a secure and healthy water future and then to fund and implement the activities that will make that future a reality.

Who Benefits from Healthy Rivers?

  • Locals
  • Visitors 
  • Wildlife 
  • Aquatic life
  • Community & Lifestyle 
  • Landscapes
  • Economy
  • Downstream communities

Who is involved?

Stakeholders, including community partners, municipalities, state and federal agencies, private landowners, local business groups, local outfitters, and more, have come together to show support for the Eagle River Fund concept.

The fund is fiscally managed at Western Colorado Community Foundation, with oversight from the Eagle River Fund board of directors (currently in development) and support from a Technical Advisory Committee (also in development).

Anticipated to initiate its first competitive grant cycle in 2025, the Fund aims to support and expedite work being done to restore the Eagle River and protect water quality and quantity. The Feasibility Report identified more than 20 organizations that may be eligible to apply for funding.