The Indigenous Youth Watershed Alliance is designed to engage youth in exploring and understanding the rivers that sustain their communities. Through hands-on experiences in local watersheds, participants develop a deeper connection to their environment, learning about the ecological importance of free-flowing and altered rivers.

A key focus of this program is the exchange of experiences between youth from different watershed regions. Those from free-flowing rivers share their observations of natural cycles, such as salmon migrations and undisturbed river ecosystems, while those from dammed river communities have the opportunity to discuss the challenges of altered waterways, limited water access, and ongoing restoration efforts. Youth will also explore how changes to river flow impact entire ecosystems, from fish populations and water quality to plant life and wildlife habitats.

For communities where dams have been removed and rivers are returning to a free-flowing state, participants learn about the timeline of ecological recovery—how long it takes for fish populations to rebound, for sediment to clear, and for native species to reestablish themselves. These comparisons provide valuable perspectives on how human interventions shape waterways and how restoration efforts bring life back to a river over time.

Guided paddling excursions and interactive discussions allow youth to experience these waterways firsthand, fostering an appreciation for river systems and their role in local ecosystems. As they navigate the rivers, participants have the opportunity for an exchange of historical and cultural knowledge on how waterways have long served as natural transportation routes, with people using paddling as a primary means of travel, trade, and connection between communities.

Activities include learning about sustainable water practices, conservation efforts, and the impact of environmental changes on watersheds. By experiencing the rivers from the water, youth gain a unique perspective on how these waterways continue to shape the landscapes and communities around them.

By blending outdoor recreation with environmental education, the Indigenous Youth Watershed Alliance seeks to inspire the next generation of stewards dedicated to protecting and preserving their rivers for the future.

Paddlesports as a Medium to Environmental Stewardship

The program uses paddlesports as a means to educate youth about water safety, paddling techniques, and the ecological significance of their waterways. By providing hands-on paddling experiences in rivers and watersheds, participants gain:

• Practical Skills: Training in paddling techniques, water navigation, and safety protocols, ensuring participants can confidently and responsibly engage with the water.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to build teamwork and communication skills through guided paddling excursions, fostering confidence and leadership among participants.

By equipping youth with these skills, the program cultivates lifelong paddlers who safely and effectively connect with the water and their communities.

The program promotes environmental stewardship by deepening participants’ understanding of their local ecosystems and encouraging them to take an active role in protecting these natural resources. This is achieved through:

• Environmental Education: Interactive sessions on the importance of free-flowing rivers, the impact of dams, and the ecological cycles of salmon runs. Participants witness firsthand the effects of environmental changes on their waterways and learn sustainable practices for managing natural resources.

• Watershed Perspectives: An exchange between youth from free-flowing and dammed river communities provide diverse viewpoints on the challenges and successes of environmental stewardship, highlighting the impact of river restoration efforts on ecosystems.

• Community Engagement: By fostering a sense of responsibility toward the environment, participants leave inspired to advocate for their watersheds and implement conservation efforts in their own communities.

This program creates an inclusive and educational paddling experience that prioritizes stewardship, safety, and accessibility. It also strengthens community connections and builds a supportive network of young paddlers who share a commitment to environmental conservation.

For information on this program or how you can become a sponsor, email us at info@riverboundoutreach.org