River Stewardship
At RFKC, we believe learning to paddle also means learning to care for our rivers. From preventing the introduction of invasive species to respecting private land and minimizing impact, stewardship is part of every program we run. From youth programs to adult clinics, we intentionally build respect for rivers. Our goal isn’t just to grow strong paddlers, but responsible ones.
🧼 Clean, Drain, Dry
Zebra and Quagga mussels are aquatic nuisance species that can spread by hitchhiking on boats, paddles, PFDs, and even inside small amounts of trapped water. These species are incredibly resilient, and can survive up to 30 days outside of waterways. While they may be small, they cause major damage to rivers and reservoirs by clogging water infrastructure, disrupting native ecosystems, and permanently altering waterways. Once introduced, they are nearly impossible to remove. Taking a few minutes to clean, drain, and dry your gear helps protect Colorado’s rivers and ensures they stay healthy and accessible for future generations. Learn more here!
Leave No Trace
The best way to show our love for our rivers is to protect them. Follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out everything you bring (and picking up trash when you see it), using established access points to protect riverbanks, respecting wildlife, and minimizing noise and impact at put-ins and take-outs. Small actions add up. When we care for our rivers and the spaces around them, we help preserve access, protect habitat, and ensure these places remain wild and welcoming for everyone. Learn more about leave no trace here!
River Access
Access to our rivers is something we deeply value, and something we don’t take for granted. In Colorado, river access can intersect with private property, which makes it especially important that paddlers act with respect and awareness at all times. We encourage our community to use established access points, avoid trespassing, minimize impact at put-ins and take-outs, and engage courteously with landowners and other river users. Organizations like American Whitewater (AW) work hard to protect the public’s right to float, paddle, scout, and portage, and we support their efforts to preserve safe and legal river access across the state. By paddling responsibly and treating both rivers and neighboring landowners with respect, we can help protect river access for everyone.
Be a River Steward
Stewardship starts with each of us. Whether you’re a first-time paddler or a lifelong river runner, your choices shape the future of the places we love. Being a river steward means showing up prepared, modeling respectful behavior at access points, mentoring newer paddlers, and taking small actions that protect water quality and habitat. When we lead by example and care for both the river and the community around it, we help ensure these waterways remain healthy, accessible, and welcoming for generations to come.
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Looking to get more involved?
Volunteer Cleanup Opportunities for 2026 TBD
